The Carols for Christmas event, set in Reading Town Hall has raised £19,528 for a leading homelessness charity, Launchpad, this festive season.

Hosted by the charity’s patrons, Matt Allwright and Danyl Johnson, the concert featured performances from Reading Community Gospel Choir and Bulmershe School Chorus.

The sold-out event was attended by some of Berkshires most influential figures, including The Lord Lieutenant of Berkshire, Mr James Puxley and the High Sheriff of Berkshire, Alba Kharbanda.

TV personality Chris Tarrant and ITV’s Mel Bloor were also in attendance.

Vicki Lewis, Fundraising Manager at Launchpad, said: “For many local people, we know that Carols by Candlelight kicks off their Christmas festivities and it was lovely to have so many people join us last night.

“It was a truly special event and I think the 400-strong audience were blown away by not only how beautiful the Concert Hall looked with all the twinkly lights and candles, but also the incredible performances from both choirs.

“During what is a difficult time for so many, we’re really grateful to everyone who bought a ticket, made a donation or took part in the raffle.”

The Concert also included readings by special guests, a raffle with prizes donated by local Reading businesses and inspiring stories about Launchpad’s work with people in housing crisis.

Every ticket sale has helped Launchpad provide homes for Reading’s most vulnerable this winter. The charity’s supported housing offers warm, clean, and safe accommodation for up to 104 people in need.

This will be a lifeline to the many individuals, couples and families due to be made homeless by the rise in the cost of living over the coming months.