Recapping our beautiful Commemorations at Christmas 2024 carol service

The Commonwealth War Graves Foundation held its annual Commemorations at Christmas carol service on Monday 2 December 2024.

Image: The Torch of Commemoration at the Guards' Chapel for this year's Commemorations at Christmas carol service

Returning to the beautiful surroundings of the stunning Guards’ Chapel, London, we were joined by very special performers and guests for another moving evening of music, commemoration, and remembrance.

Image: Special guest performers Colin Thackery and Emma Brown wowed guests with a stunning duet

Around 400 guests joined us for our third annual carol service. The fundraising event, kindly sponsored by Jaguar Land Rover, raised close to £25,000 for the Commonwealth War Graves Foundation. 

Image: Award-winning actress Joanna Scanlan treated us to a moving reading at this year's carol service

We were honoured to be joined by very special performers mezzo-soprano sensation Emma Brown, Korean War veteran and Britain’s Got Talent winner Colin Thackery, Slow Horses-starring actress Joanna Scanlan and the fabulous Guards’ Chapel choir. 

We’d like to say a big thank you for their brilliant performances, including a duet between Emma and Colin.

Foundation Trustee Major General Alastair Bruce of Crionaich OBE read a poem written by author Lemn Sissay OBE FRSL, As Long as Light Shines, which was written for the D-Day 80th anniversary commemorations earlier this year.

As well as a host of traditional favourites, the service featured the specially commissioned Commonwealth War Graves carol Shining in the Snow.

The Commonwealth War Graves Torch of Commemoration, symbolising the light of liberation and sacrifice made by those in the Second World War, featured in the ceremony. 

We’d also like to extend a huge thank you to the Cadets of Kingston Grammar School CCF who supported the Foundation team throughout the night.

Image: The wonderfully talented Choir of the Guards' Chapel was also on hand to lead the singing at this year's service

Laura Stoker, Commonwealth War Graves Foundation Director of Fundraising, said:

“I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone who supported our 2024 Carol Service at the Guards' Chapel. It was a truly special evening of commemoration, reflection, and community, all made possible by our incredible supporters. 

“A particular thank you goes to our sponsor, Jaguar Land Rover, for their generosity, which helped make this event such a success. Together, we raised vital funds for the Foundation, ensuring we can continue our mission to keep alive Every Story, For Evermore.”

All proceeds raised by Commemorations at Christmas go towards supporting our outreach and education projects to keep the memories, stories, and sacrifices of those killed in the World Wars alive for future generations.