On a cold winter night and on the Winter Solstice many of us were drawn to the Chapel at Hickey’s Almshouses for the annual Carol Service and readings – the first one in the Chapel for 3 years!

This year, using music poetry and bible readings, we were taken on a journey from the arrival in Bethlehem to the crib and stable and the significance of love. We heard the wonderful choir and the soaring soprano of our Juliet and it was a lovely opportunity for me to put on my professional hat and read What the Donkey Saw by U.A. Fanthorpe.

We finished with wine and mince pies and catch ups with neighbours, staff and trustees.

In a time of darkness this annual event beautifully celebrates our community spirit and, whether you like Christmas or prefer to ignore it, the chance to have a good sing!