Hundreds of people enjoyed our annual magical musical evening, Carols by Candlelight at the magnificent Concert Hall in Reading which has raised a fantastic £13,000 and counting!
This joyous evening starts people’s festive season off in such a delightful way and we always look forward to welcoming friends old and new.
Every penny raised will be used to help some of Reading’s most vulnerable people who are supported by our dedicated teams.
Last year we helped over 1,400 people in Reading get back on their feet and saw unprecedented demand for our support from people who have been made homeless or at risk of becoming homeless – a 44% increase*.
Carols was hosted this year by BBC Radio Berkshire presenter Bridgitte Tetteh and Pride of Reading host, Manager of The Oracle and long-time supporter, Andy Briggs.
The sold-out audience were treated to performances from the brilliant Take Note Tilehurst Community Choir who got everyone singing and joining in, along with beautiful singing from the choir at English Martyrs Primary School.
In between performances there were speeches and poetry highlighting the plight of people who are homeless or facing homelessness and what the current situation is with Sections 21 no-fault evicition notices.
Fiona Keyte, Fundraising Manager at Launchpad said: “I’d like to thank everyone for buying a ticket, making a donation or taking part in the raffle.
“I’d also like to thank AirIT and Frasers Property for their sponsorship of this event to help keep our costs down so even more money can go towards supporting vulnerable people.
“The Concert Hall looked truly magnificent with the candles and twinkly lights, and we hope that everyone enjoyed this wonderful, warm and friendly evening which marks the start of so many people’s Christmas activities.”
*August to October 2023 compared to the same period in 2022
Raffle prizes were donated by Anonymous Coffee, Double-Barrelled Brewery, Vegivores, Shed, Veeno, Jacobs the Jewellers, Reading Rep, The Roseate, Bills and Ikea.
You can still support our work with a donation to our Christmas appeal so we can help ensure local people have a roof over their head and a place to call home. Simply visit launchpadreading.org.uk/donate
Photos: Simon Kemp
