The Fashion and Textile Children’s Trust, a Patronage of Queen Elizabeth II, received an invitation from Their Royal Highnesses The Prince and Princess of Wales to nominate seven individuals associated with our organisation for the 'Royal Carols: Together At Christmas' service at Westminster Abbey, held on Friday, December 8, 2023.

The service, supported by The Royal Foundation, paid tribute to those dedicated to supporting babies, young children, and families in communities across the UK.

Among the attendees were Anna Norman, our wonderful fundraising officer and the only member of FTCT staff who attended; Kamilla, who has been a powerful industry advocate for FTCT over the past 7+ years; Emma, Theo and Tyler, one of the amazing families who received a grant from us recently (here is their grant story), as well as Chris and Andy, who are Dad and Grandad to Ned, whose electric all terrain wheelchair we were proud to part fund

As the only organisation dedicated to supporting the children of people who work in the fashion and textile industry, we were honoured to be invited to such a momentous occasion.

The Westminster Abbey choir performed beloved carols, complemented by musical performances from renowned artists like Jacob Collier and Adam Lambert.

Theo (11) and Tyler (7) were thrilled to attend the service. Meeting Rio Ferdinand and having their photos taken made their day, especially when Tyler appeared on the abbey's large TV screen.

We asked our special attendees what some of their highlights were of the evening.

What was your favourite carol? 

Anna Norman: “Once in Royal David’s City, that one was very good.”

Tyler: “I am really good at singing Silent Night, because we sing it at school.”

Which member of the Royal Family did you see? 

Tyler and Theo: “Prince William!”

What was your favourite moment of the evening?

Kamilla: “Sitting at the front with all the army guys and singing the carols. And lighting a candle. The candles were beautiful”.

Andy: “Any of the organ pieces as I am a music teacher.”

Chris: “Hearing ‘Last Christmas’ being played on John Lennon’s piano.”

The service will be broadcast on ITV1 and ITVX on Christmas Eve at 7.45PM.