Witney Comes Together for a Joyous Carol Service

What a joyful evening in Witney tonight. The Mayor’s Carol Service brought the whole community together in that wonderfully unforced way that Witney does so well. The church was full, the mood was bright, and from the moment Mark and I arrived we were met with a warm welcome from the Mayor, Andy Bailey, and several councillors and town officials we’d had the pleasure of meeting earlier in the year. It felt like coming back to old friends.

Witney Town Band were on superb form. They’ve been part of the town’s life for more than a century – first mentioned at the proclamation of George V in 1910 and later celebrated for their appearances at the coronation of George VI and their competition successes in the 1930s. Their story stretches right back into the days of the Temperance Band and the Mill Band, and they carry all that history with them. Tonight their playing was full of warmth and confidence, and the church absolutely lifted with their sound.

The children from WOAPA were a delight. There’s something infectious about young performers singing with that much enthusiasm and heart, and they really brought a touch of sparkle to the evening. WOAPA’s adult singers joined them, adding lovely depth and ease to the music. VoiceBox also sang beautifully – a choir with real character, founded in 2004 and still going strong, raising thousands for charity along the way. Their contribution tonight was full of charm and precision.

It was also a joy to spend time with DL Ron Spurs, representing the Lieutenancy this evening. Moments like this often bring together people from across the county who care deeply about their communities, and tonight had that feeling in spades.

There was generosity everywhere you looked – a collection for the church and the Mayor’s charities, and donations for Witney Foodbank to support those who may be struggling this winter. And, in true seasonal fashion, the mince pies afterwards (very welcome indeed) were kindly donated by Sainsbury’s.

A lovely evening from start to finish – music, kindness, familiar faces and that gentle reminder of what this time of year is really about. Witney does a carol service beautifully, and it was a privilege to be part of it.