OLDHAM Parish Church was filled with festive music as Dr Kershaw’s Hospice staged its annual Christmas concert.
There was a strong turnout for the evening of carols, poetry and performances from local schools and community groups.
The recent concert raised over £2,600 to support people living with life-limiting illnesses in the borough.
Musical contributions on the night came from Dr Kershaw’s Hospice Choir, Hope Singers and Crompton House School Woodwind Ensemble.
Students from the Brian Clarke Church of England Academy added a different note to the evening with a poetry recital and performances of Sing Noel and When Christmas Comes to Town.
The audience was also invited to join in with traditional carols, as well as the hospice’s own festive favourite, The Twelve Hospice Days of Christmas. The tongue-in-cheek version swaps the original lyrics for references to life at the hospice, including gardeners and cups of tea, and has become a regular highlight of the event.
Adding a touch of star power, TV actress Kimberly Hart-Simpson appeared on stage to read a light-hearted poem, drawing laughter from the crowd.
Alice Entwistle, Fundraising Events Lead at Dr Kershaw’s Hospice, said the evening was a celebration of the community as much as the music.
“How blessed we are to have such an amazing community behind us,” she added. “As Oldham’s only hospice, we really do appreciate the kindness and support we receive.
“Whether you attend our events, donate prizes for our raffles, or visit our charity shops, you are enabling us to continue providing high-quality care across Oldham.
“Thank you so much to everyone who helped to make this event a success – especially our volunteers, our choir conductor Paul Firth, and the Reverend Canon Daniel Burton.”
Funds raised from the concert will go towards supporting people who need inpatient or at-home palliative care through Dr Kershaw’s Hospice, based in Royton.