Southend Bach Choir rounded off the festive season with a joyful and heart-warming Carol Concert on Saturday 20 December at Kings Road URC, Westcliff-on-Sea, in aid of the local charity SECE Mind.

It gives us great pleasure to share that the concert raised £950 for MIND! A heartfelt ‘thank you’ to everyone who contributed in any way — whether through attending, donating, or helping behind the scenes. The funds will go directly to support clients through counselling, housing, and local projects. We were also delighted to receive rave reviews and thanks from MIND for our support.

The evening brought together choir and audience alike in the true spirit of Christmas, with much-loved carols, reflective readings and moments of light-hearted celebration. From the traditional opening of Once in Royal David’s City to the rousing finale of We Wish You a Merry Christmas, the programme offered a rich mix of familiar favourites and beautifully chosen choral works, including music by Rutter, Chilcott, Bach and Vivaldi.

Audience participation was very much at the heart of the concert, with enthusiastic singing in carols such as O Come, All Ye Faithful, Hark! The Herald-Angels Sing and God Rest You Merry, Gentlemen. Thoughtful readings added moments of quiet reflection, while lighter touches — including Sleigh Ride and an inspired performance of The Twelve Days of Christmas that included the audience — brought smiles and laughter. Under the direction of Roger Humphrey, the choir filled the church with warmth, colour and festive cheer.

Southend Bach Choir would like to wish everyone a very Happy Christmas and a peaceful New Year, and we look forward to welcoming you again at our concerts in 2026.