It was a full house at St Andrew’s church on Wednesday as people came together for the Mayor of Farnham’s Civic Christmas Carol Service.

As is the custom, half the seats were given to representatives from organisations that contribute to life in Farnham. The remaining seats were allocated to people who had entered the public ballot for tickets.

The congregation was treated to an evening of wonderful music by Farnham Youth Choir. In keeping with the year’s Mayoral theme which is ‘working together with the community, supporting young people’, readings were given by Jo Goodhew youth worker from Hale Community Centre which supports and runs clubs for young people and Bronwen Price, winner of Farnham’s Young Sports Personality of the Year 2023.

Councillor Alan Earwaker, Mayor of Farnham says: “I would like to thank everybody who came to support this eleventh Civic Christmas Carol Service and our special guests who included Brigadier Roger Hood representing the Lord Lieutenant of Surrey, the Mayor and Consort of Waverley, Councillors Penny and Paul Rivers, and Mayors of neighbouring towns and boroughs.

“i would also like to thank everybody who made a donation to the retiring collection. We collected £900 which will go to Farnham Youth Choir who are raising funds for a once in a lifetime opportunity to represent the UK at the 2024 World Choir Games in New Zealand. We wish them well with their fundraising and the competition.”

The service was led by Reverend David Uffindell. Other readings were given by Deputy Lieutenant of Surrey, Brigadier Roger Hood QVRM TD DL, Councillor Graham White, joint Leader of Farnham Town Council and the Mayor of Farnham.