A SNOWDROP service will act as a chance to give thanks for God's gift in creation.

The service will take place at Church of St Tysilio in Llantysilio, near Llangollen, on February 10 at 3pm.

St Tysilio's churchyard becomes illumined each year by clusters of snowdrops.

This service is kept as a tradition every year around Candlemas; The Christian festival of Candlemas commemorates the ritual purification of Mary, 40 days after the birth of her son Jesus. This day also marks the ritual presentation of the baby Jesus to God in the Temple at Jerusalem.

Father Lee Taylor, priest-in-charge of Llangollen Group of Churches, said: "Snowdrops (galanthas nivalis) were once known as 'Candlemas Bells' because they usually bloom early in the year around the Church Feast of Candlemas in February.

"Traditionally, Christians believed that this flower was a symbol of purity and of Jesus Christ being the hope for the world.

"The snowdrop service also acts an opportunity to give thanks for God's gift in creation. Christians believe that, as global citizens, we have a duty to work for the sanctification of the whole world and care for our green spaces.

"The readings and prayers at this service will reflect those whose work seeks to ‘protect’ the natural environment and promote care and respect for creation.

"Snowdrops will be placed on the altar and people will be invited to light a candle as a symbol of their commitment to caring for creation."