Over 1,200 local residents pack into Macron Stadium’s Premier Suite for yearly festive event
Bolton Wanderers’ annual carol service took place in the Premier Suite at Macron Stadium on Monday evening.
Renamed this year as ‘Sing Christmas – Not Such A Silent Night’, the event was a positive evening with everyone gathered in fine voice, ready to get into the Christmas spirit.
Over 1,200 people turned out for the service including a 200 strong choir formed by children from various primary schools around Bolton.
The evening was hosted by the club’s chaplain Phil Mason and Jon Holling, the breakfast presenter on local radio station Tower FM.
Music meanwhile was provided by the Bolton Hoover Band who led the gathered congregation in some of the most popular Christmas carols.
Boom Dance Group also performed three routines during the evening and the children’s choir performed some well-known Christmas songs under the musical direction of Rob and Sue Wilding.
In recent weeks, there has been a competition across the primary schools for children to write a piece about looking at Christmas through the eyes of one of those in nativity story and the winners read out their entries as part of the service.
The Mayor and Mayoress of Bolton were also in attendance along with a number of faith leaders from the town and actress Chelsea Halfpenny.
Chelsea, best known for playing the character Amy Wyatt in Emmerdale, is currently performing in pantomime at Macron Stadium alongside former Coronation Street actor Graeme Hawley.
Speaking following the evening, club chaplain Phil Mason said, “The whole event was fabulous – everyone enjoyed it and we have had very positive feedback from so many people who attended.
“I want to thank everyone who came along and especially all who took part in the evening. It really got Christmas started and gave us an opportunity to remind everyone of the reason for the season.”
Read more at http://www.bwfc.co.uk/news/article/annual-carol-service-success-for-wanderers-2841734.aspx#G5zd5uaGF7V4IA82.99