This carol concert has been a special one for many years, and is now very much a SMVC tradition. The returning audience must feel that way too as, once again the church was full. We welcome once more the the talented Wroughton Silver Band, and the JTP Trust Concert Choir who added their choice of Christmas music.

We would also like to thank the High Street Club, Old Town, Swindon for inviting us to sing for them on 22nd December which provided additional funds for our chosen charities.

The final amount raised for Prospect Hospice and Julia's House Hospice was £1700, each receiving a cheque for £850. Pictures of these presentations, which took place in February, can be seen at the end of this post.The following photos show taken during concert.

On our way to another memorable night at Christchurch

SMVC's director of music, Kirstie Smith, sets out the programme for the evening, and SMVC's first set of carols.

The JTP Trust, Concert Choir in great voice.

Wroughton Silver Band, ready to entertain with a blend of  musical talent, as well as ....

a sense of fun but ....

..... we have some of our own too!

A joint item ended the concert.

Some presentations were made: First, to  Jim Toolen, for 25 years of loyal service. Jim sings in the in the Bass section of the choir, always a smile on his face, and a friendly word to say. 

Then to the latest member of the choir, Chris May, who was presented with a pair of SMVC cufflinks by Swindon's Mayor, Cllr Fay Howard, to mark his first concert with SMVC. 

At the start of 2026 funds raised at this concert and carol singing at the High Street Club, Swindon were presented to the Prospect Hospice and Julia's House Hospice. As well as enjoying singing, and making some great friends, raising money for charity is a very important part of being a member of SMVC.