Talented individuals and groups perform to a packed house at Wellesley Theatre

once again the theatre was packed to the rafters with audience and performers for Christmas at the Wellesley – everyone coming together to make sure the festive season in Wellington started on a cheerful note.

Some 16 groups and artists provided song, dance and readings for members of the audience lucky enough to get tickets – they were being sought on the internet after selling out two weeks before the show.

The audience, ably guided through the event by Amy Eveleigh and Shane Mace, were entertained by Ian Jones, Stage Right, Lizzie Harvey-Longley, Emily Jeffries, Jump for Joy, Wellington Operatic Society, Maddy Riley, Felicity Rickard, AB Performing Arts, Court Fields School, Kirk J Shepherd, Wellington Pantomime Group, Boop Ella, Genesis Youth Theatre, Ministry of Moves and Singsational.

Getting caught up in the Christmas spirit could not be avoided as Wellington Silver Band accompanied the community carols.

The grand finale, led by Nick Brace and his family, was once again I Saw Three Ships. This has become tradition in the event and this year was a nod to Geoffrey Brace, for whom it was written. He was sorely missed jazzing it up on the keyboard.

Some of this year’s profit will be spent on a bench at Wellington Monument. Special dispensation has been given to have a plaque on it which will be inscribed ‘From the people of Wellington, Christmas at the Wellesley 2019’.

Other recipients will be the Graveyard Gardeners and the Friends of Wellington Hospital.

If all goes to plan Christmas at the Wellesley will be back again next year on December 6. The event has benefited from the generous sponsorship of Carlypress and Merlin Cinemas but is now a man down. This means the event is seeking a third sponsor to the tune of £200. Anyone who feels they can help can get in touch with Nancy Powell-Brace at Odette’s Tearoom in High Street.

Lack of sponsorship will not prevent the event from taking place and another sold-out performance is looked forward to. It is advised to book early – organisers do not want to disappoint people but the number of tickets is limited.