On the 24th November 2016 the Salvation Army held their annual Christmas Celebration at the Royal Albert Hall.

The evening featured performances from the International Staff Band, International Staff Songsters conducted by Farringtons School Principal Mrs Dorothy Nancekievill, and special guests including Shakin’ Stevens and Ann Widdecombe.

Over the past 151 years the Salvation Army has gown both in size and scope and now has more than 1.5 million members across the globe. Founded in 1865 by William and Catherine Booth the charitable organization has worked tirelessly to help the needy through education, the relief of poverty, homeless shelters, disaster relief and other endeavors.

The yearly celebration aims to reinforce the charity’s core Christian principles while at the same time raising money to fund its work.

The evening began with a message by the charity’s Lieutenant Colonel Melvin Felcham followed by performances by the Staff Band and Songsters. Readings from the Bible were given by the former Conservative Government Minister, Ann Widdecombe.

The Farringtons Junior Choir contributed their own inspirational performance of The Holly and the Ivy, and We Need a Little Christmas. The sweet voices of the children were framed perfectly by the excellent acoustics of this legendary venue.

In addition the public was treated to the sight of Shakin’ Stevens performing an old favourite, Merry Christmas Everyone, on stage at the Royal Albert Hall in the Salvation Army Christmas Concert. The performance marks a welcome return to the limelight for the star famous for hits in the 1980s such as Green Door and This Ole House. The star has his own links to the Salvation Army through his grandmother, Florence, who was a prominent Salvationer in the 19th century. A rousing performance of a new track, Fire In The Blood was Shaky’s own tribute to both Florence and members of his family who are still active members of the Salvation Army.

A rendition of Hark the Herald Angels Sing rounded off a touching and enchanting evening. Of the Christian faith or not, anyone who was in the audience could not have failed to have been moved by the tone of the performances. The combination of familiar Christmas Carols combined with an air of nostalgia provided the perfect opening to the Christmas season.

Shoaib Salim

Farringtons School