Carols by Candlelight raises more than £10,000

We are delighted to announce that our much-loved Carols by Candlelight event, held on Tuesday 2 December at Reading Town Hall, was a resounding success – marking the official start of Christmas in Reading.

Hosted by Launchpad Patron and BBC presenter Matt Allwright, alongside Kirsti Wilson, Launchpad’s Head of Marketing and Fundraising, the evening brought together hundreds of supporters for a magical celebration of festive music, inspiring readings, and stories of hope.

Guests were treated to fantastic performances from The Tonyx and Universal Voices choirs, their singing filled the historic Concert Hall with Christmas spirit. Alongside traditional carols, attendees heard moving accounts of how their support helps Launchpad provide safe, warm homes for people in Reading facing homelessness.

Thanks to the generosity of everyone who attended, the event raised £10,000 and rising, which will go directly towards Launchpad’s vital services – ensuring over 100 vulnerable individuals, couples, and families have a place to call home this winter and all year round.

Kirsti Wilson, Head of Marketing and Fundraising at Launchpad, said: “Carols by Candlelight was a wonderful celebration of community and compassion. Seeing so many people come together to support those in need was truly heartwarming – Christmas had officially begun in Reading!”

Launchpad extends heartfelt thanks to all who attended, donated, and supported the event. 

We would like to say a big thank you to our friends at Scion Communications Ltd who generously sponsored the event and to the local businesses who donated raffle prizes. 

These businesses are … Ebb&Flow; Eclectic Games; Jacobs the Jewellers; Milk; Shed; Plaion; The Plough at Shiplake; Premier Suites, Reading, The Biscuit Factory, The Roseate, Vegivores, Vino Vita and Mama’s Way. 

Photos by Dijana Capan and Hilton Chan