The Princess of Wales returned to Westminster Abbey to host a special Christmas carol service on Friday 8th December. This year, the service thanked all those who work to support babies, young children and families in our communities across the UK and a celebration of the golden opportunity that the birth of a new baby brings.
Spearheaded by The Princess, and supported by The Royal Foundation, the service was a moment to bring people together at Christmas time and recognise those who have gone above and beyond to help others throughout the year. Linked to Her Royal Highness’ Shaping Us campaign, the service showcased the hope of new life and why it is so important to build supportive, nurturing worlds around children and the adults in their lives. We know that the foundations we lay in early childhood shape the rest of our lives and the adults we become. This special time in a child’s earliest years, from pregnancy to the age of five, provides a unique chance to build resilience, happiness, and health for the future.
Combining traditional and modern elements to encompass people of all faiths and none, the service saw the world-renowned Westminster Abbey choir perform some of the nation’s most beloved carols, alongside musical performances by guests including Jacob Collier, Freya Ridings and James Bay, and a special duet from Beverley Knight and Adam Lambert. Poignant readings were delivered by speakers including The Prince of Wales, Micheal Ward, Emma Willis, Roman Kemp, and Jim Broadbent. A specially commissioned poem written by Joseph Coelho, the Children’s Laureate, will also be read by Leonie Elliott.
The Abbey was filled with inspiring individuals and families from all corners of the UK, including midwives, health visitors, early years practitioners, nursery teachers and community volunteers, as well as Members of The Royal Family. It shone a spotlight on those who go above and beyond and will be a chance to celebrate the incredible role they play in raising children and shaping the society of tomorrow. The carol service saw Westminster Abbey filled with festive decorations, providing a beautiful Christmas backdrop for the special evening and provided an opportunity to deliver a festive thank you to those who are working so hard to help the youngest members of our society to flourish.
Filmed for broadcast, the service has been developed and delivered in partnership with Westminster Abbey, as a co-production between The Royal Foundation and BBC Studios Events Productions. The service will air as part of a special programme on ITV1 and ITVX on Christmas Eve.
In addition to the Westminster Abbey Service, twelve community carol services are taking place across the UK, hosted by Lord-Lieutenants, and supported by The Royal Foundation.
