Melbourne Parish Church is the star attraction in this year's Church of England TV advert.

St Michael and St Mary's features as the church attended by one woman through many Christmases throughout her life – from her first starring role as the baby Jesus in the village nativity play, to childhood and teenage years, joining church youth groups, getting married, parenthood and facing bereavement.

Despite life's ups and downs, she finds joy and support in the church, faith and friendship, not only during Christmas but throughout the year.

The church's rector, the Revd Steve Short, said: "Melbourne features right at the start and midway when my daughter, Sophie, goes to put a star on the Christmas Tree.

"It was a great experience and such a privilege to host colleagues from the Church of England and support their making of this film.

"They had such passion, drive and joy for what they were doing, and it’s such an exciting initiative."

The Church of England's campaign this Christmas is Follow the Star: The Great Invitation and it encourages people to try church for the first time or, if they have visited churches before or been supported by a church through difficult times, to gather again as we reflect on the year and pray for those finding it hard.

Watch the advert