Carol concert raises the roof of Temple Church and £400,000 for Maggie's

Musical Director Professor Paul Mealor LVO brought together talented artists from around the world to make for a special night of entertainment on Tuesday 2 December.

Guests were treated to solo performances by Cai Thomas - an award-winning young chorister - and The Ayoub Sisters - chart-topping classical instrumentalists.

The Temple Church Singers, directed by Thomas Allery, sang beautifully arranged festive pieces and joined the rest of the congregation in raising the rafters of the historic chapel with traditional Christmas hymns.

Poignant readings from Janet Ellis MBE, Dr Sian Williams, and The Rt Rvd Rose Hudson-Wilkin offered moments of reflection.

While the evening was one of joy, peace and togetherness, we never forget that it has been a difficult year for people with cancer and everyone who loves them.

The moment of the night was the address from Maggie's centre visitor Sophie White, whose moving story and message resonated with guests, who erupted in applause at her words.

Finding the joy of living

Sophie White, who spent time at Maggie's in West London after being diagnosed with a brain tumour in her twenties, spoke candidly about the difference Maggie's made to her cancer experience.

Sophie drew on the vision of our Founder, Maggie Keswick Jencks, who believed that "no one should lose the joy of living in the fear of dying".

In her deeply moving speech, Sophie told us how Maggie's helps her to do just that.

The event, while included a gala dinner, raffle and pledges after the carol concert, has now raised upwards of £400,000, with donations continuing to roll in.

All donations are being match funded by sponsors Martin and Iwona Tedham, meaning they make twice the impact at no additional cost to givers.

There is still time to support and have your donation doubled if you donate today.

Westminster Abbey for 2026 carol concert celebrating 30 years of Maggie's

Our special 30th anniversary celebration will be taking place at Westminster Abbey next November. Register your interest to be amongst the first to find out more about the event and when tickets become available.