Prince and Princess of Wales join celebrities, sports stars and community stalwarts for Together at Christmas service
The Princess of Wales staged her annual Christmas Carol service yesterday (FRIDAY), recognising community stalwarts and celebrating love in all its forms.
Kate presided over her Together at Christmas service at Westminster Abbey, now in its fifth year, which brought together 1,600 guests.
Hollywood stars Kate Winslet and Chiwetel Ejiofor gave readings, as did the Prince of Wales.
Celebrity chef Dame Mary Berry, who created a Christmas wreath on display in the Abbey, was among the guests alongside leading sportswomen.
Katie Melua, Fisherman's Friends and Griff performed on a roster also featuring actress Hannah Waddingham and Dan Smith from pop rock band Bastille.
The service recognised individuals from across the UK who have dedicated or volunteered their time to be present with others, led initiatives that bring people in their community together, or offered a helping hand to those around them.
Among those invited was schoolgirl Madison Reed , who last year raised more than £1,360 for the Archie Foundation by Highland dancing in 26 locations across Scotland , each beginning with a different letter of the alphabet.
She raised the funds for the charity, which supports sick children receiving medical care in north-east Scotland , along with their families.
In a letter that was available to all guests, the princess praised community stalwarts invited to the service, telling them they are making an "extraordinary difference to the lives of others".
She also extolled the virtues of the Christmas period that reminds us "how deeply our lives are woven together", adding that despite life feeling "fragmented or uncertain" at times, the festive season "invites us to remember the power of reaching out to one another".
Among the guests were members of England women's rugby World Cup winning squad - Rosie Galligan , Helena Rowland , Jess Breach and Marlie Packer , a number of the Wales women's rugby team, including captain Alex Callender, and football Lioness Michelle Agyemang, a member of England Women's Euro 2025 winners.