Swings and Smiles carol concert heralded as a success

Newbury charity raise more than £2,000

THERE was an evening of festive music and song on Friday as Newbury-based charity Swings & Smiles hosted its annual candlelight carol service.

The event, held at St Mark’s Church, Englefield, raised more than £2,000 and featured performances from children who use the charity’s facilities at the Phoenix Resource Centre, Newtown Road.

The concert saw a number of special guests in attendance, including Lord Lieutenant of Berkshire James Puxley, TV star Chris Tarrant and Mary Cameron, a patron of the charity.

The founder of Swings & Smiles, Sian Cook, said: “Our annual Candlelight Carol Service on Friday evening was a wonderful event.

“It was lovely to see so many of our families, friends and supporters there enjoying what was a very special occasion.

“We raised around £2,300 and would like to thank everyone who supported us.”

All proceeds will go to Swings & Smiles, which provides support to local children with special needs and their families.

For further details, visit the charity’s website www.swingsandsmiles.co.uk