Spirits high at Warwick Castle spectactular

WHO says rain can dampen the spirits? That was certainly the attitide held by organisers, performers, supporters and attendees at Warwick Castle’s cockle-warming festive evening on Saturday.

No one needs to be told what a horribly dark and wet day it was, but nevertheless, strong crowds turned up in their wellies, waterproofs and Santa hats to stand on the soggy grass and sing along to a good variety of traditional Christmas hyms, as well as some fun numbers such as Jingle Bells and Ding Dong Merrily On High.

The talented choirs of St Mary’s church in Warwick and the Royal Spa Brass band led the way - with the evening beginning with a beautiful solo rendition of the first verse of Once In Royal David’s City - and BBC Coventry and Warwickshire radio presenter Annie Othen acted as compere to keep the proceedings together.

But for me, the real magic of the evening came from the good spirits of the crowds, who appeared determined to sing loud and proud, cheer and join in the general merriment. Hot food and drink (including warming mulled wine) provided in stalls at the back of the castle’s East Front helped to keep these spirits up - and what was even more uplifting to know was that proceeds from the evening would be going to good causes. Organisers the Warwick Lions and Warwick Rotary Club will split the funds raised between a variety of charities and the Friends of St Mary’s Choirs will donate funds towards the choirs.

Well done to all involved in organising and taking part in such a lovely, Christmassy, feel-good event.

To see pictures from the event, visit webadmin.jpress.co.uk/brightcovepreview/previewbrightcovevideo.aspx?RefID=1356347810328