Wiltshire joined communities across the UK in hosting a ‘Together at Christmas’ Community Carol Service, supported by The Royal Foundation of The Prince and Princess of Wales.

The event was part of an annual initiative spearheaded by The Princess of Wales to recognise and thank the many people around the country who act with love in their communities, contributing to a more cohesive and connected society.

The local service, held in St John the Baptist Church in Devizes on 11 December, was inspired by The Princess of Wales’s Westminster Abbey Service, which will be televised on Christmas Eve on ITV1 and ITVX. The services brought people together to celebrate love in all its forms – whether it’s love within families, through friendship, across communities, or even through powerful moments of connection with strangers.

The Community Carol Services span the breadth of the UK, from Armagh in Northern Ireland to Lanarkshire and the Isle of Wight. Like the Westminster Abbey service, each combined traditional and modern elements to offer a meaningful and inclusive celebration for people of all faiths and none.

In Wiltshire, the County Carol Service brought together guests from across the county – from volunteers and community leaders to local organisations – to celebrate the people who make a difference in their communities. Through carols, readings and shared reflections, the service shone a light on the compassion, creativity and connection that define life in Wiltshire.

Dame Sarah Troughton, His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Wiltshire, said: “I am very proud that Wiltshire’s annual County Carol Service was chosen by the Royal Foundation and Kensington Palace as one of fifteen community carol services taking place across the UK this Christmas.

“The recognition reflects the warmth, spirit and sense of togetherness that the service represents for our county. Each year it brings people from all walks of life together to celebrate community, kindness and shared hope – values that sit at the heart of this wonderful initiative.

“It was an honour for Wiltshire to be part of such a special national moment, and I’m delighted for everyone involved in making the service such a success once again.”

Amanda Berry CBE, CEO, The Royal Foundation of The Prince and Princess of Wales, commented: “Our Royal Foundation Community Carol Services embody the true spirit of the festive season. This December marks the fourth year that The Royal Foundation has had the privilege of supporting these special community gatherings, shining a light on truly remarkable people right across the UK. From small towns to major cities, these wonderful and uplifting occasions bring people together to honour those who have made a lasting difference in their communities throughout the year.”

Wiltshire was the only lieutenancy in the South West selected to take part in this year’s Together at Christmas initiative.