FAMILIES in Gurnell Grove, West Ealing, enjoyed a unique evening out as the council estate was turned into a Christmas Winter Wonderland.  

The site, put up for one night, included a skating rink, fairground games and a Christmas market. 

It was organised by The Grove Community, a group that reaches out to the poorest areas to help build community spirit and encourage people to love their neighbourhood.

Winter Wonderland is just one of the community events it hosts during the year. Others include a children’s club, weekly lunches and bingo church. 

Mark Tate, team leader, said: “[It] has shown what we can achieve when the Church and the Eden Network come together to serve and bless communities like Gurnell Grove.

“Hyde Park’s winter wonderland is famous, but I’m certain that everyone here thought the Gurnell Grove one was more special.”

The Bishop of Islington, the Rt Rev Ric Thorpe, said: “Since its relatively recent launch, The Grove has become a central part of the Gurnell Grove community, connecting with local people of all ages.”