Her Royal Highness's Annual Festive Service of Carols Honours Unsung Heroes

The Princess of Wales is hosting her annual Yuletide celebration at the historic Abbey, with a congregation comprising royals, celebrities and local heroes who have made a difference in their neighbourhoods.

The sizable congregation will listen to a selection of carols, music and readings from stars like Chiwetel Ejiofor and Kate Winslet.

Focusing on Compassion and Love

The theme of the concert, held in the glowing Westminster Abbey on Friday, is generosity and expressing affection towards one's neighbour.

Attending the event are Anna and Jonathan Cordiner, whose child passed away from a brain tumour, and who founded an organisation, a support fund, to support families who have a terminally ill child.

"Your efforts, love, and understanding, often discreetly and without words, and without any expectation or recognition, make an extraordinary difference to the circumstances of individuals," the Princess expressed in a message before the carol service.

A Steady Comeback

The Princess of Wales is continuing her own measured re-emergence to official duties following her health challenges and treatment, last month delivering her first public speech for two years, in which she discussed recognising the "discreet, frequently unseen labour of caregivers".

Music and Opportunity

Attendees entering the Abbey can listen to talented youth performers aided by the Future Talent organisation, set up with the help of the former royal to broaden opportunities for musical tuition.

Carys Wood, aged 18, who performs on the trumpet and is from Wales, has been helped by the trust, with grants helping towards musical instruments, lessons and travel costs - and she said it was "amazing" to be playing at the concert.

"Pursuing music is often costly," Carys said. She is now enrolled at the prestigious music academy, and added that "everyone should have the opportunity" to hone their artistic talents.

A Sisterly Duo

Carys's 11-year-old sister, Eliza, who performs on the brass instrument, will also be at the Abbey. "I never imagined I would perform in front of so many distinguished guests," she said.

Within the audience will be representatives of different generations.

That will encompass young Saphia Turner, nine, honouree of a prize for youthful altruism, who produces drawings and undertakes charity feats to generate funds for local food charities.

Yuletide Atmosphere and Acts

The Abbey has been decorated with custom-created holiday decorations, with TV cook Mary Berry and florist Simon Lycett contributing to their design.

Among the musical performers will be singer Katie Melua, the Westminster Abbey choristers and a Cornish sea shanty group, the Fisherman's Friends, who said the invitation to sing was "a dream come true."

This annual carol service will be televised and shown on a major network on Christmas Eve.