Military Charity And Longcroft School Join Forces To Celebrate Christmas

For the past three years, the Soldiers’, Sailors’, Airmen and Families Association (SSAFA) East Yorkshire Branch has joined forces with Longcroft School to stage a ‘Celebration of Christmas’ at St Mary’s Church.

This year is no exception, with the event taking place on Saturday 14th December at 5pm, but with a local focus.

David Elvidge, SSAFA East Riding Chairman, explained:

“This year we really want it to be a truly local event for the Beverley community, which is why I am delighted that not only is Longcroft our key partner once again, but St Nicholas School, Beverley Brass Band and St Mary’s Church Lads’ and Girls’ Brigade are also taking part. This is the first time all of the music has been provided by local groups and we are encouraging residents and visitors alike to come along and support them.”

Longcroft School’s Community Liaison Coordinator, Matt Snowden, is co-managing the event. He said:

“It’s a pleasure for Longcroft to be part of this annual event – every year we are always pleased by the number of people who take the time to attend the celebration and, with such a local vibe this year, we hope people will turn out in force. Our students are looking forward to performing in the beautiful surroundings of St Mary’s for a very worthy cause and we hope to bring a bit of Christmas magic to a wintery evening.”

The ‘Celebration of Christmas’ will include music, festive readings and carols the whole audience can join in with, whilst remembering all those who have been part of our Armed Forces in the past as well as currently serving personnel, in particular those stationed abroad.

Mr Elvidge said he thinks the event is a good way for people to get into the festive spirit, whilst keeping this in mind: “I will be spending Christmas Day with my wife, my family and all the home comforts we can take for granted – it’s easy for us to forget that forces families are often separated, with dads and mums, sons and daughters, sisters and brothers, spending Christmas and New Year half the world away. They may be taking part in peace keeping missions, aiding

humanitarian efforts or working in combat zones. Wherever they are, they will be in our thoughts and prayers. Although we want our concert to be a joyful event, it also gives the Beverley community an opportunity to come together and share a joint celebration of Christmas, whilst remembering those who won’t be home for the festivities.”

The event starts at 5:00pm on Saturday 14th December 2013 in Saint Mary’s Church, Beverley. Civic dignitaries will be in attendance and entry is FREE, but donations towards the work of SSAFA will be warmly received.

Mr Elvidge concluded:

“This is a great community event and we have a lot of people to thank – from St Mary’s Church for allowing us to use the building, to all the performers who will be taking part. I hope as many people as possible will turn out, support our Armed Forces personnel and enjoy this start to the Christmas season.”