Stars unite with the Princess of Wales to honor Britain’s volunteers at a festive carol service
The annual Together at Christmas carol service, hosted by the Princess of Wales, brought together stars and community leaders to honor the volunteers of Britain. The event took place on December 5 at Westminster Abbey, a location steeped in royal history.
Stars Unite to Celebrate Volunteers
This year, the focus of the festive gathering was on outstanding contributions made by local communities. The Princess took time before the service to express her gratitude to volunteers from around the UK.
Royal Attendance
Attending the ceremony were Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis, who contributed to a “Connection Tree.” This special tree was adorned with paper loops inscribed with the names of guests, symbolizing unity and connection.
- Prince George, 12
- Princess Charlotte, 10
- Prince Louis, 7
The royal family greeted one another outside the abbey before entering. The event was attended by around 1,600 guests, including celebrities and figures from sports. Notable attendees included actress Kate Winslet and musician Katie Melua, who performed and read during the service.
Community Heroes Recognized
The service acknowledged individuals who have volunteered or led initiatives aimed at bringing their communities together. Among the guests was celebrity chef Dame Mary Berry, who created a Christmas wreath for display at the venue.
- Zara and Mike Tindall
- The Duchess of Edinburgh
- Prince Michael of Kent (arrived in a wheelchair)
Kate mingled with performers and expressed her appreciation for their contributions. Notably, she connected with Eugene Levy, of “Schitt’s Creek” fame, during the service. They shared a light-hearted moment while holding hands, reinforcing the spirit of camaraderie present at the event.
Voices from the Community
Among the volunteers recognized was Ann Davies, aged 81, known for her cooking support for the Moses Project. This charity helps men battling addictions. Davies shared her belief that true volunteer work comes from passion, not expectation.
Jeremy Brown from the Fisherman’s Friends band praised the Princess for her effort in organizing the event. He emphasized the importance of making others smile through acts of kindness.
Overall, the Together at Christmas carol service highlighted the importance of love and community support during the festive season. By honoring volunteers, the Princess of Wales inspired a spirit of giving and connection that resonates throughout the UK.
