ST MARY’S Church in Tadcaster echoed to the sound of Christmas, as pupils from Tadcaster Grammar School held their community carol concert.

Pupils welcomed parents, friends, teachers, governors, members of the community and civic dignitaries to their annual service and the event brought an early Christmas message of hope and peace to all.

Governor Jeremy Airey gave the first reading and there were both carols old and new, interspersed with readings by the students. There was also some beautiful singing with soloists including Lucy Allis with the first verse of Once In Royal David’s City and Alicia Fletcher with her rendition of The Shepherds’ Farewell. Lawrence Jeffrey-Parkinson played a cello solo.

Rev Canon Sue Sheriff welcomed everyone before the service and at the end thanked those involved for their participation, praising the students for their excellent singing and readings. She said: “I have been at this church for eight years now and watched these wonderful students grow from primary school into fine young adults with amazing talents.

"These young people are our future and will one day be our leaders and I pray that they will know a peaceful world and grow in the knowledge of Christ’s love."

Steve Cobb, the Mayor of Tadcaster, and Richard Sweeting, vice chairman of Selby District Council, were also in attendance representing all Civic dignitaries.

Mr Cobb said: “Events such as these are so important for the community and I hope this wonderful Service will continue for many years to come.

“We certainly need to grow as a community and this was a wonderful example of people coming together.”