A German woman who had “the warmest of welcomes” from Borehamwood residents during a trip to England returned the favour by designing holy candles for two churches.

Anne Fischer, who lives in the twin town of Offenburg, designed the Paschal Candles for St Pauls Lutheran Church, Cranes Way, Borehamwood.

The 39-year-old visited the village with the Offenburg Christian Council three years ago and decided to make the candles as a way repaying the residents for their hospitality.

She said: “These candles are very special. They connect me to my Christian family and friends in Borehamwood. I cannot put it to words.

“I design the motifs and make them out of wax to reflect the personalities of the person I am making them for. They mean so much to me - I can’t put it to words.

“I really enjoyed making them and I am happy everyone likes them. I had the warmest of welcomes here so decided this would be a nice gesture.”

The candles design is based upon an icon of St Paul, painted by iconographer Fadi Mikhail who created the church alter painting in 2010.

They are traditionally blessed and lighted every year during Easter time, and used throughout the season until it is blown out on Ascension Day.

Pastor David Jackson said: “It is a lovely gesture and has special meaning for us because it is our twin town.

“She did a splendid job of the designs.”