YUELTIDE revellers welcomed the season in song as a celebrated Christmas Cracker concert went off with a bang.
Festive fundraisers flocked to the 19th annual St Teresa’s Hospice extravaganza at The Dolphin Centre, Darlington, for a magnificent evening of musical entertainment
Led by musical director John Forsyth, the seasonal spectacular featured performances by the Darlington Choral Society, Darlington SING Community Choir, the Cleveland Philharmonic Choir, Cockerton Ladies Choir, Egglescliffe Youth Choir, the Richardson Singers, Richmondshire Choral Society, Tees Valley Youth Chamber Choir, the Vocal Collective and Vocal Soul.
Festive favorites including O’ Come All Ye Faithful, O’ Little Town of Bethlehem and Hark the Herald Angels Sing had the audience singing along resulting in a magical evening of music, song and carols.
St Teresa’s chief executive Jane Bradshaw led the St Teresa’s Hospice Staff and Supporters Choir as it took to the stage for its third annual Christmas Cracker performance.
“The Christmas Cracker is a magnificent concert which really heralds the start of the holidays,” said Jane.
“Christmas is a wonderful time to come together to celebrate and also a time to acknowledge the wonderful hospice teams in our in-patient unit and those working out in the community, who keep our services going 24/7 and throughout the festive season.”
Mince pies and mulled wine were served to guests during the evening’s interval, with raffle tickets available for a luxury Christmas hamper.
Christmas cards, wrapping paper and Christmas puddings were also on sale for a donation to St Teresa’s Hospice.
“Yet again, we have been treated to some wonderful performances from the choirs, soloists, ensembles and orchestra, headed up so well by John Forsyth MBE,” added Jane “I can’t thank everyone enough for donating their time and talent in the true spirit of Christmas and also our wonderful audience for helping us to raise much-needed funds to continue our vital work.”