A CAROL service has helped put Wintonians in the Christmas spirit as we enter the week before Christmas.
Last week, Winchester Cathedral provided the backdrop for a carol service hosted by Naomi House and Jacksplace, both local hospices for children and young adults.
The evening saw more than 500 tickets sold and has raised over £13,000, enough to fund more than 560 hours of nursing care for families in need.
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It was hosted by Rev Nicky Smallwood, the chaplain at Naomi House and Jacksplace. The congregation came together to celebrate the season and the meaning of Christmas while raising important funds for the charity, so that local families receive the expert medical care they need.
On arrival, the congregation were greeted by music from harpist Amy Pritchard, who perfectly set the tone for the rest of the evening.
A highlight of the service was the uplifting music, featuring cherished carols performed by the Naomi House and Jacksplace Chamber Choir and the Voices for Hospices Choir, accompanied by the talented Robin Smallwood on the organ.
The evening was further enriched by heartfelt readings delivered by distinguished supporters of the hospices, including patron Alastair Stewart, journalist Sally Taylor, Lieutenant Colonel Jim Phipps of ATR Winchester, and a young adult who receives care at the hospices.
The Christmas Carol Service also welcomed special guests, including local MP Danny Chambers and the Mayor of Winchester, Councillor Russell Gordon-Smith, who joined the congregation in celebrating this meaningful and festive occasion.
Mark Smith, CEO of Naomi House and Jacksplace, said: "It was a delight to be at Winchester Cathedral to share such a wonderful and memorable carol service with our supporters.
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"The fantastic turnout, with an exceptional audience, readers, and choir, underscores the care our local community has for the families who use our hospices. It is this generous support that makes our vital work as a hospice for children and young adults possible, both now and in the future."
Lt Col Jim Phipps, reader at the carol service, said: “ATR Winchester have been proud to support Naomi House and Jacksplace since 2008. It was an enormous privilege to be invited to be part of the deeply moving Christmas Carol Service in the beautiful setting of Winchester Cathedral.
"The regiment are proud to support Naomi House & Jacksplace and hope to continue to play a small part in making a difference to the children and young adults at the hospices”
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