YORK'S Community Carol Concert has sold more than 1,000 tickets, as the event celebrates its golden jubilee.

The inaugural concert took place 50 years ago and the event has raised thousands of pounds for charity since then.

This year organisers want to make sure they mark the anniversary in style, and raise the most cash they have ever done for two local good causes - The Press's Guardian Angels Appeal, and the Lord Mayor and Sheriff of York's Christmas Cheer Fund.

Graham Bradbury, one of the organisers, said it would be a particularly special concert, as it would be the last event to be held in the Barbican in its current state before a major refurbishment starts.

He said: "The more people who come the more money we get to give to the two charities. It's the ideal way to start Christmas and it's the first day of Advent.

"We're delighted the Barbican is open to celebrate our jubilee event which makes us the longest-running carol service in York."

The audience will be entertained for two-and-a-half hours by a variety of performers, including a combined school choir of St George's Primary School, Wigginton Primary School and Appleton Roebuck Primary School.

Harpist Angelina Warburton will appear on stage, as will Steel Expression, a local steel band.

There will also be a specially-convened choir of 16 local singers and there will be the chance to hear two new Christmas songs written by Steve Cassidy plus much more.

The concert takes place on December 2, from 2.30pm to just before 5pm, and tickets cost £5.

The Press has teamed up with the organisers of the spectacular and has ten pairs of tickets to give away.

Simply write to Mike Laycock at The Press, PO Box 29, 76-86 Walmgate, York, YO1 9YN, explaining in no more than 100 words why you deserve to go to the concert.

Remember to include your name, address and a daytime telephone number. Entries must be received by next Friday.

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