THE Countess of Wessex was the guest of honour at a charity Carol concert at Winchester Cathedral.

Taking place on Thursday, December 1 those present also included Esther Rantzen, the founder and president of ChildLine.

The charity was set to benefit from the fund-raising event entitled Carols by Candlelight.

It included a reading by the countess in the historic landmark, along with a host of music and singing.

No fewer than 80 youngsters from primary schools across Winchester took part. They performed alongside 40 children from The Pilgrims’ School choir, and the same number from the Kings’ School choir, along with the Winchester Cathedral choristers.

The groups were co-ordinated by head teacher of Compton All Saints’ CE Primary School, Allison Driver, backed by Hampshire Music Service.

Before the concert, which was supported by Winchester-based estate agents, Penyards, there was also a VIP drinks reception.

Following the event, organisers said it raised more than £15,000.