Members of The Royal Family attend 'Together at Christmas' carol service at Westminster Abbey

Spearheaded by The Princess of Wales, and supported by The Royal Foundation, the service recognised the selfless efforts of individuals, families and communities across the UK, and celebrate and showcase the joy that human connection and togetherness can bring.

This year’s carol service was dedicated to Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II and the values Her Majesty demonstrated throughout her life, including duty, empathy, faith, service, kindness, compassion and support for others.

These principles are shared and personified by the inspirational guests who were invited to the Abbey in recognition of their tireless work to help and care for those around them. Combining traditional and modern elements to encompass people of all faiths and none, the service saw the world-renowned Westminster Abbey choir perform some of the nation’s most beloved carols, including ‘O Come, All Ye Faithful’, which was selected through a public poll.

There were also musical performances by guests including Craig David, Alexis Ffrench and Samantha Barks, and a special duet from Alfie Boe and Melanie C.

Poignant readings were delivered by speakers including The Prince of Wales, Dame Kristin Scott Thomas, Hugh Bonneville and Kadeena Cox.

The event will be broadcast as part of Royal Carols: Together At Christmas, a special programme narrated by Catherine Zeta Jones, airing on ITV1 on Christmas Eve.

The broadcast will feature additional content including an introduction from The Princess of Wales, films highlighting individuals who go above and beyond to support others, and tributes to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

Guest nominations were drawn from Lieutenancies across the UK, alongside community networks and charities associated with Members of the Royal Family, including some of the patronages of Her Late Majesty.

The congregation also consisted of those who may be more vulnerable or isolated in our communities – including people who might find the winter period particularly challenging. Running in tandem with the service at the Abbey, a family of ‘Together at Christmas’ community carol services have taken place around the UK across December to celebrate local heroes.

Hosted by Lord Lieutenants, and supported by The Royal Foundation, these events have been tailored to their local communities whilst also including elements of the Westminster Abbey service. 

Local ‘Together At Christmas’ community carol services are being hosted in the following locations:

• St Mary’s Church, Belfast
• St Mary’s Church, Handsworth, Birmingham
• Glasgow City Chambers
• St Chad’s Church, Middlesborough
• Newcastle Cathedral
• St John The Baptist Church, Peterborough
• St George’s Church, Telford
• St Thomas’ Church, Swansea