THE largest crowd ever joined in the Christmas Eve carol service on Headless Cross Green on December 24.
Now in its fifth year, the service, organised by local residents Rachel Evans and Becky Rose, attracted people from not only the local area but from across Redditch and beyond including Bromsgrove.
Music was once again provided by the award-winning Arrow Valley Brass and over the years it has raised thousands of pounds for the Primrose Hospice, with this year’s total still to be counted.
“It was like a mini-concert this year – certainly the biggest crowd we’ve had,” said Becky.
“It’s free but we have a collection for the Primrose and it’s just a lovely event that has now become a tradition.”
Becky and Rachel had the idea of running the carol concert five years ago and contacted the Headless Cross Green committee, who thoroughly backed the idea.
That first year was well attended and since then the event has continued to grow.
“Arrow Valley Brass joined us four years ago and they are wonderful and really make the atmosphere,” said Becky.
Local Councillor Roger Bennett has also helped out, providing carol sheets and lights for the Christmas tree.
“He has been a huge help, and we needed the lights as we’ve no lighting of our own – otherwise everything is provided by ourselves and Headless Cross Orchard,” said Becky.
“It’s a lovely way to start Christmas, to provide an opportunity for families to walk up and sing carols for an hour.”
