A Night of Music, Community, and Giving: Thank You for Your Support

An article by choir member, Sally Flint.

Earlier this year, members of our choir were asked to nominate charities to support this Christmas, and we were proud to select two local ones—Scunthorpe Samaritans and Lincolnshire & Nottinghamshire Air Ambulance. These organisations share a common, valuable purpose in protecting health—one focused on mental well-being and the other on physical emergencies.

As an advocate for Samaritans, as well as a proud member of our choir, it brings me joy to reflect on how the Carols at All Saints' event brought together music, community, and generous giving. Together, our fundraising efforts have raised well over 500 pounds, which has been shared between the two charities. Your generosity has made a profound difference to both organisations. All of us at Saints' Singers are enormously thankful for your support. 

Scunthorpe Samaritans

As a volunteer with Scunthorpe Samaritans myself, I’ve seen firsthand the deep impact of their work, and I was thrilled that this was selected as one of our Christmas charities this year. Charities for our events are chosen with care, aiming to reflect both the needs of our local community and causes close to our hearts. Samaritans provide an essential lifeline to people in distress, offering a listening ear and a sense of hope. In many ways, our choir’s music echoes that same message—offering a moment of comfort and connection through song. The Scunthorpe Samaritans branch relies on the generosity of our community to sustain their work, and knowing that our choir’s performance and your donations contribute to keeping this vital support available fills me with immense gratitude. Thank you.

Lincolnshire & Nottinghamshire Air Ambulance

The Lincolnshire & Nottinghamshire Air Ambulance has a skilled team that brings emergency medical care directly to those in urgent need, day or night. Their ability to operate 24/7 without government or NHS funding is a testament to their dedication and efficiency. Through your generosity, we are helping this remarkable service remain ready to respond—whether at a roadside, a beach, or in the countryside. Both physical and mental health are essential, and the work of these two charities reflects the importance of supporting well-being in all its forms.

A Joyful Performance and Shared Experience

Carols at All Saints' brought together music, history, and community in the stunning Winterton Church. Standing in the nave, a setting steeped in tradition and reverence, we felt like choristers of old, our voices ringing out beloved carols. The timeless surroundings and the joy of singing together created a direct link to centuries of festive tradition. The connection between our choir’s fundraising efforts and our performance shone through during the concert, as the evening beautifully reflected the very values these charities uphold.

When the spotlight was on us, we performed a joyous blend of tradition and innovation. From the uplifting harmonies of The Holly and the Ivy to the lilting charm of Sussex Carol, we brought the nativity story to life with a vibrant mix of carols and secular songs. Emma and Kay added a magical touch on the bells, making While Shepherds Watched/Sweet Bells an unforgettable highlight. Our fresh take on Alan Wood’s arrangement of Away in a Manger had the audience spellbound, while the timeless allure of White Christmas left us all dreaming  of snowy festivities.

The vicar reminded us that whether we are Christians, followers of other faiths, or simply seekers of goodwill, the Christmas message is universal: a call for hope, love, and unity. As I’ve written before, and truly believe, moments of shared music are more than just performances—they are a celebration of the season, community, and, in this case, the values of Christmas: hope, love, generosity, and unity.

Together, Saints’ Singers supported two incredible charities during our carol concert. We celebrated the power of music and strengthened the bonds that make our community so special. Thank you for your support.