Churches across the country chorused their way into the World Record books on Sunday.

More than 17,000 people joined together to beat the existing Christmas carol sing-a-long record.

Organised by Premier Christian Radio and sponsored by BibleLands, the unified carol singing events included venues in Scotland, Cornwall, Wales and even Geneva.

Those taking part sang carol classics Silent Night, O Come All Ye Faithful, O Little Town of Bethlehem, Hark The Herald Angels Sing, and Away in a Manger.

The previous record was set when 15,000 carol singers joined the stars of Disney's A Christmas Carol in 2009. The new record will not be confirmed by Guinness for a number of months, but the attempt generated interest across communities.

Heanor Baptist Church in Derbyshire was among the participants, and pastor the Revd David Howe said the event attracted people from the fringes of church life, including contacts made at this year's Big Welcome.

'Some who came said they would be returning for Christmas, and would be bringing their husbands,' he told The Baptist Times.

'From our point of view it went very well. We saw lots of people we don't always see, and there was a really tremendous atmosphere.'

Baptist minister the Revd Peter Kerridge, Premier Christian Radio chief executive, said 'It's inspiring to see so many people across the whole of the UK get on board for this record breaking attempt.

'It's been a lot of fun, and has brought people out to celebrate and really be a part of the spirit of Christmas.'

The record attempt is part of the national 'Christmas Starts With Christ' campaign.