THE Bishop of Ely confirmed 21 candidates aged from 10 to 92 during a packed service at St Peter and St Paul’s Church at Chatteris.

During the vibrant service of confirmation and baptism for the March Deanery, adults Duncan Beck and Yvette Gilbert were baptised in the 14th century font.

After giving them a good soaking, Bishop Stephen enthusiastically rained water down on members of the rained water on congregation using a rosemary branch to remind everyone of their own baptism.

The music group led the congregation in a rousing hymn while the Bishop of Ely processed into the church. Modern music together with traditional hymns, led by the combined choir, made the service truly ancient and modern.

Rev Wendy Thomson from Chatteris said: “It was a fantastic celebration for the whole deanery of churches. A wonderful celebration for the faith we share in Fenland.”

Refreshments were served in the Bricstan Hall where families and friends gathered to meet Bishop Stephen and show their support for the candidates.

The confirmation candidates came from Chatteris; St Peter’s and St Wendreda’s churches in March; and from St Nicholas’ Church, Manea.