On 9 December, the Together Trust community came together for one of the most cherished moments in the festive calendar – our annual carol concert. Held once again at the beautiful St Mary’s Church in Cheadle, the evening was filled with music, creativity and the unmistakable warmth of the Christmas spirit.
We are incredibly grateful to Reverend George Crowder, who kindly opened the doors of St Mary’s and led the service with warmth and generosity, as he has done for so many years. Reverend Crowder began the evening by welcoming everyone and offering an opening prayer, setting a reflective and joyful tone for the night ahead.
The congregation then stood together to sing much-loved carols, including Once in Royal David’s City, We Three Kings, Away in a Manger, Silent Night and Hark! The Herald Angels Sing. The sound of voices filling the church was a powerful reminder of the Together Trust community coming together as one.
A moving reading of The Birth of Jesus was delivered by Sara Aldridge, Service Director, before the concert continued with a series of joyful performances celebrating the talents of children, young people and staff across the charity.
Festive video performances were shared by Inscape House School and Inscape Vocational College students Remy and Tilly, alongside staff members performing Christmas favourites.
Students and staff at Bridge College also delighted the audience with video performances, while the Bridge College Arts Group brought a touch of magic with highlights from The Wizard of Oz. Bridge College’s Makaton group added to the celebrations with a spirited performance of Merry Christmas Everyone.
Further video performances came from the young people and adults at our Newbridge Community Centre, and a heartfelt live performance of The Power of Love by Kennedy and Abigale from Linden, one of our residential homes, was a truly special moment of the evening.
Throughout the programme, beautiful festive artwork created by children and young people at Haines House residential home, and by George, Jake and Layla from Woodlands Respite Service, was displayed – a colourful and creative reminder of the talent within our community. Every attendee also received a festive gift to take home, adding to the spirit of giving and gratitude.
The service drew to a close with a reading from Mel Dunn, Chief Executive, followed by a prayer led by Reverend George Crowder and an inspiring closing speech from Giles Gaddum, Chair of Trustees.
Reflecting on the evening, Mel Dunn said:
“Tonight’s service is the result of an incredible amount of hard work, creativity and dedication from so many people. Our performers and contributors – children and young people, and staff – have poured their hearts into preparing something truly memorable. I hope their talent and spirit bring you as much joy as they have brought us all.”
As always, guests were warmly invited to stay behind after the service to enjoy refreshments and mince pies, sharing conversations and festive cheer.
Our annual carol concert remains a shining example of what the Together Trust is all about – community, creativity and coming together to celebrate the season in a spirit of kindness and hope.
