Based on an idea from Slovenia, and now for a second year, Wylam has its very own model Christmas village with Joseph, Mary and Jesus right at its centre.
The model, built in St Oswin’s Church, has been lovingly and patiently constructed using contributions from individuals, the Scouts, the Brownies, the children from Wylam First School and youngsters from Messy Church.
This year the model is bigger and better and is a must see. Along with the addition of the model of Wylam First School built by the children of Year Four, there is the railway station beside a model train which runs over Points Bridge.
Also new this year is a model of The Wylam Methodist Centre made by three very keen modellers from Messy Church. There are also new clay models of people, animals, trees and the like created by the children of Wylam First School and hand painted by a number of volunteers from St Oswin’s congregation. Along with all of these exciting features there is a new innovation which is sure to be jaw dropping. It is the river - complete with flowing water. 
This is year two of a five-year project and the aim is for it to grow into a real community venture involving as many villagers as possible. Whatever people have to bring to the model is valued. The emphasis is on enjoyment and participation. Now we want to share it with as many people as possible and in doing so recruit volunteers for next year.
People can view Wylam’s Magical Christmas Village at St Oswin’s in Wylam from until 6 January from 11am until 3pm daily. Visitors should be prepared to be absolutely stunned!
Sam McGeever & David Atkinson