Friday 08 December 2023
Maggie’s Carol Concert brings festive cheer while also helping people living with cancer
Her Majesty The Queen joined Dame Joanna Lumley, broadcaster Gyles Brandreth and actor Charles Dance at the historic St Paul’s Cathedral on Thursday 7 December for a special carol concert in support of Maggie’s.
The Queen, who has been President of Maggie’s since 2008, enjoyed readings from the former Scottish Poet Laureate Jackie Kay and actor Sir Simon Russell Beale CBE, as well as chef and Great British Bake Off judge, Prue Leith.
Dame Joanna Lumley, who read 'The Twelve Days of Christmas: A Correspondence' by John Julius Norwich, said: “What a thrilling festive evening in aid of a marvellous cancer support charity. It was wonderful to share the evening with Her Majesty, and, of course, being in St Paul’s Cathedral made it all extra special.”
Broadcaster Gyles Brandreth read Luke 2.8-20 on the night. He said: “I am a huge supporter of the work Maggie’s does to help people living with cancer, and it was a joy to be part of such a special, festive evening in St Paul’s Cathedral with Her Majesty.”
The Queen was joined by The Dean of St Paul’s Cathedral, The Very Reverend Andrew Tremlett; Maggie’s Chief Executive Dame Laura Lee, DBE; and Chairman of Maggie’s Board of Directors Stuart Gulliver.
The Very Revd Andrew Tremlett, Dean of St Paul’s said: “It was a joy to celebrate the work of Maggie’s in the company of such distinguished guests. There are few places more magical than St Paul’s at Christmas time, and I hope that this memory will be a warm and lasting one for each of the 2,000 attendees. The Cathedral is a longstanding friend and partner of Maggie’s, and I sincerely hope this friendship will endure for years to come.”
Dame Laura Lee added: “This was a very special evening. Our carol concerts are always magical, but to be in St Paul’s Cathedral this year with our President, Her Majesty The Queen, was quite incredible.
“I am so utterly grateful for Her Majesty’s enduring support in helping people living with cancer over the last 15 years, as well as that of St Paul’s, our readers, all our sponsors and everyone else who contributed.”
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