Former Coronation Street star Brian Capron took to the pulpit to narrate a Christmas story at a charity concert.

The actor, who played murderer Richard Hillman in the soap, joined a congregation of more than 700 people for the event in aid of The Argus Appeal.

Every seat was taken at All Saints Church, Hove, for The City Charity Christmas Concert to hear him tell the story of Adam and Eve and the birth of Christ, which was accompanied by carols and Bible readings.

The choirs of All Saints and St Christopher's School, Derek Froud and the Esterhazy Chamber Choir, the London City Brass, soprano Elizabeth-Ann Weldon and organist Alex Voice performed.

The congregation enjoyed a performance of The Holly And The Ivy by the children of St Christopher's Choir. The London City Brass added to the sense of the occasion.

Readings were given by familiar figures in the community including Simon Bradshaw, editor of The Argus, Dick Knight, chairman of Brighton and Hove Albion Football Club, Hugh Griffiths, chief executive of Sussex County Cricket Club, and Julien Boast, chief executive of the Theatre Royal.

Lighting effects by Goldgate Lighting highlighted the choir, ensemble and the altar, enhancing the festive atmosphere within the huge church.

The congregation was in full voice as it joined in with the favourite carols.

Mr Capron, who lives in Hove and whose mother was cared for at Martlets Hospice, said his recent stage appearance in The Play What I Wrote, in Birmingham, prepared him for the enormous audience in the church.

He said: "It was a superb evening - a great way to start Christmas.

"It was particularly atmospheric with the singing of the choir. The London City Brass were fantastic. They added that 'umph' to the occasion. There were moments where you felt like bursting into applause.

"Afterwards, I talked to a lot of people who said they all enjoyed themselves, and so did I. I loved standing in the pulpit."

Lady Averil Bryson, chairwoman of The City Charity Christmas Concert, said: "It was absolutely full. There was not a seat in the place.

"We thank all the people who performed and all the people who supported and helped us."