Age UK’s annual Love Christmas carol concert took place this evening (Thursday 8th December), at St Botolph-without-Bishopsgate Church, London. The event raises vital funds for the Charity’s Christmas campaign, to support older people most in need.
The church provided a beautiful atmosphere for the festive celebration, which was hosted by presenter and long-time Age UK ambassador Penny Smith and included some other very special guests. There were stellar performances from the Chelsea Pensioners and singer Laura Wright, and the audience was also treated to some Christmas readings from Sir Tony Robinson and Dame Penelope Wilton.
For lots of older people, life gets smaller and too many find themselves alone and feeling isolated, with nothing to look forward to and nobody to talk to or ask for help. Christmas can be a particularly lonely and difficult time, and the cost of living crisis is making it even tougher for many older people, with nearly 3 million older people saying this Christmas will be one of their hardest yet[i].
The money raised from Love Christmas supports Age UK’s Christmas campaign, which is helping to fund its Advice Line and Telephone Friendship Services. The services provide vital advice and friendship for older people most in need, and the Charity is calling on the public to donate to the campaign if they can, so they can continue to support the older people that need them.
Sir Tony Robinson, Age UK supporter, said: “I’m thrilled to have been a part of Age UK’s Love Christmas carol concert this year. It’s wonderful to come together and celebrate this special occasion, whilst supporting Age UK’s vital work at the same time.
“Loneliness is an awful experience for so many older people, and it’s important that we do what we can to make sure no one has to go through this. Age UK’s services can be a lifeline for those with nobody to turn to.”
To donate to Age UK’s Christmas campaign, or to find out more, please visit: www.ageuk.org.uk/christmasappeal
