The Christmas Community Concert organised by the town’s Rotary Club was held at the Leisure Centre last Sunday and attracted a large audience to see performances by choirs and sing popular Carols and songs.
This year the brass band music was provided jointly by talented students from Greenfield and Woodham who played magnificently. They were brought together by Music Teacher John Tobin and conducted by Steve Boyd who along with Jane Parker came from the County Council Music Service to support the choir and musicians.
There were some outstanding singing by school choirs from Aycliffe Village, Sugar Hill, and St. Joseph’s who had the added attraction of the Headteacher Gráinne Duffy playing the flute. The ever popular “Shine” choir from St. Clare’s gave a powerfully confident performance and new adult choir the Marie Clare Singers made an introductory appearance. Charlotte Altringham took what is now a regular spot and it has been nice to see how well she has matured as a singer/guitarist over the years.
Our two senior school choirs were brilliant and much credit is due to teachers for their well rehearsed contribution to this event.
Our MP Phil was present and Santa Claus made a visit, The Mayor Barbara Clare and the President of the Rotary Club gave Christmas Greetings and new Priest Fr. Michael Whalen brought to mind the real meaning of this festive season with a Christmas Blessing.
