Singing in the season

8th November 2007

United Response’s fourth annual carol service was held this Wednesday in the beautiful Church of St Peters, Eaton Square, Chelsea. A record audience of more than three hundred turned out for a beautiful service hosted by Martyn Lewis CBE, with Seaford College Choir singing a selection of classic carols throughout the evening.

Another highlight was the annual collaboration between Swanbank Music, and The United Response Deaf Services Choir, who accompanied them through “Walking In A Winter Wonderland” with sign language. Carmel Cryan, an actress who has worked a great deal in the charity field over the last few years, read a sketch by Joyce Grenfell. The audience included people from the local parish, people United Response supports, staff and supporters. Nearly 100 housebound people listened from their homes to the service, thanks to the Community Network.

Martyn Lewis also conducted two moving interviews to illustrate United Response’s work. Alf Pearson, 75, of Chesterfield, talked about his early years in an institution, and the contrast with the busy and fulfilling life he lives now. David Fry discussed the work he did on “Can You Hear Us?”, a film written, acted and directed by people with learning disabilities.

“It’s always a highlight of our year,” said Su Sayer, “and this may have been the best yet. It was wonderful to see the Church so full, and the atmosphere was electric as ever. Enormous thanks go to everyone who worked so hard to make it a reality. Already we’ve had some wonderful feedback from the congregation.”