The magic of Christmas has definitely touched the palace of Westminster. The place is transformed by massive Christmas trees, a Christmas market inside Westminster Hall and many carol services, usually supporting a charity. The first carol concert I attended was at Speaker’s House with music sung by The London Adventist Chorale. It was held primarily for the staff of the House of Commons and Mr Speaker sung along despite admitting he was a terrible singer – true!
Later in the week I had agreed (as it turned out unwisely) to sing in a choir to raise money for Syrian refugees. The Hands Up Foundation raise money to provide prosthetics to children who have lost limbs during the terrible conflict. It’s such a great cause and St Margaret’s church was packed. We had readings by famous actors and solos by members of Parliament and Alexander Armstrong from Pointless – he has a really great voice.
Anyway, yours truly turned up expecting to sing carols with hundreds of others and instead was handed two pieces of music in Latin. I was a bit worried at this point as I neither read music or Latin…..I was placed in the choir’s quarters with a handful of others…and that was it…we were the choir! Luckily many of my colleagues could sing and taught me the pieces I had to sing…apparently, I’m a soprano…ish…!
It was with great relief that for all the other carol concerts I attended I was in the audience – a much more comfortable spot. The West Sussex Fire Brigade carol service in Chichester Cathedral was absolutely beautiful and the highlight was the WSCC staff and West Sussex Community Choir led by Emily Barden.
The Christmas Concert in support of the Rosemary Foundation and Nyewood village hall was spectacular. The Emsworth Concert Band led by Guy was accompanied by two local talented singers Sarah Bateman who lives in Rogate and Peter Ashworth from Nyewood. They were all brilliant and it was a magical evening.
I’m really looking forward to Christmas, of course I’m not organised enough with cards and presents but a few weeks in West Sussex is just what I need after the dramas in Parliament. Despite what you may read in the news I believe the Government is moving forward in many areas, including the Brexit negotiations but there is always more to do…..for now that can wait until next year!
Thank you for reading this column and I wish you and your family a joyous Christmas and a very happy and peaceful New Year.