Exeter College have announced details of their annual Festival of Carols to be held at Exeter Cathedral on Thursday 8th December. This year’s festival is in aid of Devon Air Ambulance Trust, the college’s charity of the year.

The event, sponsored by Lloyds Bank, includes music from the Exeter College Chamber Orchestra, Music Academy ensemble and Big Band and the audience are encouraged to join in the singing led by the College’s Choral Society.

Principal John Laramy says: “The Festival of Carols provides an opportunity for us to recognise the start of the festive season and celebrate the talent of our student musicians, readers, staff and college community.”

The Festival begins with a stunning candlelit procession, followed by a welcome from John Laramy and prayers and blessings by the Very Revd Dr Jonathan Draper and Revd Christopher Durrant. Guests are invited to sing carols, listen to readings by students, and join in prayer.

Donations will be collected at the end of the evening to go towards the college’s annual fundraising for The Devon Air Ambulance Trust, whose aim is to relieve sickness and injury in and around the county of Devon through provision of an emergency Air Ambulance Service. They can reach emergency scenes anywhere in Devon within minutes. As an independent charity, every penny received directly benefits their mission: saving lives.

The free event, open to the public, will open its doors from 6.30pm to anyone wishing to join the college’s staff, students and family members to celebrate the festive season, with the event starting at 7.30pm.