EVESHAM had the honour of being chosen as one of the eight places in England to hold a Together at Christmas Carol Service last Sunday (December 7), as supported by The Royal Foundation.
The annual concerts are spearheaded by The Princess of Wales to recognise and thank the many people around the UK who have gone above and beyond to help others in their community.
Hosted by the Lord Lieutenant of Worcestershire, Beatrice Grant at All Saints Church, more than 260 guests enjoyed an outstanding celebration of music and verse led by The Venerable Mark Badger, Archdeacon of Worcester.
Councillor Mark Goodge with Councillors Marion Griffiths and Mayor John Clatworthy. Picture courtesy of Mark Goodge
The service featured music from the Worcestershire Symphony Orchestra, spellbinding performances from 22-year-old Worcester-based soprano soloist, Heini Hughes, and the voices of 40 members of the Harvington Singers, all combining to create a truly memorable occasion.
The Story of Eof and the Abbey of Evesham was led by Dr Sue Ablett of Evesham Festival of Words, and Tomasz Jarecki spoke on behalf of the European diaspora, who have been welcomed into Evesham, with the help of the charitable work of Aspeera and Evesham Welcomes Refugees.
Readings were given by Simon Brown on behalf of the Evesham Street Pastors, Annabelle Howell on behalf of the Lord Lieutenant’s Cadet CCF, and Dianne Bennet MBE on behalf of Caring Hands in the Vale.
One of the guests was the mayor of Evesham, Councillor John Clatworthy, who attended with his consort, Coun Marion Griffiths.
“I cannot emphasise enough the pride and honour that Marion and I had in attending this celebration on behalf of the Evesham community.
“I congratulate the Harvington Singers and their incredible harmonies, and the Worcestershire Symphony Orchestra was phenomenal, and brilliant beyond words.
“I also pay an tribute to Heini Hughes, an incredible young lady from Worcester for her rendition of O Holy Night,” he said.
Picture courtesy of Mark Goodge
He was joined by Councillor Mark Goodge, the chairman of Wychavon District Council, and an Evesham town councillor.
“It was an absolutely wonderful service, and it was a real privilege to be invited along with representatives of voluntary groups who do so much work for the town.
“It’s a huge honour for Evesham to be chosen to host the event, and the quality of performances from the orchestra, choir and soloist showed the depth of talent we have here in Worcestershire, he added.
Picture courtesy of Mark Goodge
During her address at the conclusion of the service the Lord-Lieutenant Beatrice Grant, said: “[The] Community Carol Service has been designed as a heartfelt thank you to the communities and organisations in and around Evesham.
“It is a celebration of the spirit, generosity and unwavering neighbourliness that make this part of Worcestershire such a special place.
“I want to recognise the volunteers and organisations, those unsung heroes, who serve local communities.
“You are, in every sense, a genuine safety net, supporting those who are struggling, lifting up those who feel alone, and offering kindness and stability in moments when they are needed most.
“The impact you have is profound, and this afternoon we honour and thank you for it.”
