The 'Celebration of Christmas' carol concert in Marlborough College Chapel raised £53,000 for the Stroke Association.

The concert was the charity’s single biggest fundraiser from an event outside London, and it's success has guaranteed a spot for 2020.

More than 600 people went to the carol service, which took place on December 19.

As well as belting out some popular carols, there were also festive readings from celebrity guests, including Strictly Come Dancing star Viscountess Emma Weymouth and radio and television broadcaster Chris Tarrant.

The headline sponsor was Cazenove Capital with 50 other organisations supporting the event.

Every penny made from ticket sales went towards the work of the Stroke Association in Wiltshire.

Rachel Inglefield, chair of A Celebration of Christmas said:

“The incredible amount raised is down to the generosity of all those people who were involved in the evening - our talented performers who gave up their time and immense talents, our generous corporate supporters and individual patrons and all those 600 guests who braved the high winds and rains to attend the service.”

 Tom Allen Head of the Oxford Office at Cazenove Capital said:

“We are delighted to have been the lead sponsor for the inaugural ‘A Celebration of Christmas’. It was a truly wonderful evening and we are so pleased to have been able to help the vital work of the Stroke Association to rebuild lives after stroke.”

Amy Spencer, Regional Fundraising Manager at the Stroke Association said:

“The event was organised by a committee of wonderful volunteers. Thanks to all their hard work, we can help people affected by stroke in Wiltshire get the very best care and support they need. Stroke is the second most common cause of death in the world and can happen to anyone – babies, children, new mothers, as well as older people. On behalf of the Stroke Association, thank you to everyone who supported A Celebration of Christmas.”

The committee would be delighted to hear from any local businesses who would like to support the 2020 service.

A Celebration of Christmas 2020 will take place on Monday 21 December in Marlborough College Chapel. Guests can register their interest to be notified when tickets go on sale through the website www.celebrationofchristmas.co.uk.