Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral was lit up by candlelight and echoed to the sound of music at the annual NSPCC fundraising night.
Carols by Candlelight is an event held each December for the past 11 years, raising vital funds for NSPCC Merseyside.
Performances came from Wirral Schools Concert Band, Pop Vox Choir, Pownall Hall Senior Choir, plus Astrid and Alderley Edge Senior Girls Choir.
Also making an appearance was the current lead singer of Wet, Wet, Wet and winner of The Voice 2016, Kevin Simm. The pop singer amazed the audience with his effortless versions of ‘Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas’ and ‘White Christmas.’
The NSPCC is using its #SparkleOn campaign to support the children that benefit from their services.
NSPCC Community Fundraising Manager, Janette Drew, told JMU Journalism: “This is an incredible event for the NSPCC across Liverpool. We have got a huge campaign in the run up to Christmas and it’s all about shining a light on neglect.
“With one in 10 suffering from neglect we need to be there to make sure that we can support as many children this Christmas.
Twitter: Orlaith Clinton
Janette Drew from @NSPCC told @JMUJournalism that their campaign this year focuses on shining a light on neglect, with 1 in 10 children in the UK having suffered neglect. They are using the hashtag #SparkleOn to spread the word and raise awareness this Christmas. pic.twitter.com/0q5z7lSLZU
— Orlaith Clinton (@ClintonOrlaith) 5 December 2018
“One third of calls in the run up to Christmas are from children with neglect issues, so its more important than ever to fundraise the money from fabulous events like this. Every penny from tonight is going towards the work that we are doing here in Merseyside.
“I want to thank every single guest for coming here tonight and every performer for giving up their time to take part in this incredible event.”
The Home Bargains-sponsored event raised £12,500 and organisers have already pencilled in the next Carols by Candlelight for December 5th 2019.
Twitter: Orlaith Clinton
Pop Vox Choir sing their first song of the night, “Most wonderful time of the year.” @JMUJournalism #SparkleOn pic.twitter.com/zno0cKt60c
— Orlaith Clinton (@ClintonOrlaith) 5 December 2018