The Breast Cancer Care Carols at St Paul’s Cathedral
Wednesday 9 December
sponsored by Swarovski
This year’s Carols sponsored by Swarovski was a very special occasion as we took the event to the magnificent St Paul’s Cathedral.The event, which sold out back in October, saw us welcome over 2,100 guests to one of London’s most iconic venues for a magical evening of sparkle, festive carols and special performances.
Guests were welcomed by the Boy’s Choir of Westminster Under School who opened the service singing the first verse of Once in Royal David’s City as they processed down the Cathedral. After a welcome by the Dean guests enjoyed festive readings from an all star cast of celebrities including Jeremy Irons, John Hurt, Timothy West, Prunella Scales and Sophie Okonedo. Our Chair of Trustees, Jane Hinnrichs shared a moving reflection about her experience of breast cancer which was followed by classical singer Faryl Smith giving a beautiful acoustic rendition of O Holy Night.
After the service guests kept warm with hot roasted chestnuts on the steps of the Cathedral whilst 250 guests made their way down to The Crypt below the Cathedral floor for an intimate champagne supper. A quartet provided the perfect entertainment during the champagne reception and guests then took their seats for a delicious supper.
Jeremy Irons, Timothy West, Prunella Scales and Sophie Okonedo joined us for the supper and took great delight in the Heads & Tails fundraising game. An entertaining auction followed with furious bidding for lots including an exclusive Damien Hirst signed and illustrated catalogue and tickets to watch a Royal Ballet performance from the wings. To round off the evening Timothy and Prunella drew the raffle with exciting prizes ranging from golf for four at the Harleyford Golf Club and Swarovski crystalline champagne flutes with wine and vintage champagne.
The night transpired to be one of the most moving and memorable of 2009. It was the biggest single ever event organised by Breast Cancer Care and has raised over £120,000 for the charity. Thank you to everyone who supported the event.
Join us in 2010
Next year’s Carols will be held at St Paul’s Church in Knightsbridge on Thursday 2 December. To enquire about tickets for 2010, please call 020 7960 3554 or email specialevents@breastcancercare.org.uk to find out more details.
