Christmas by Candlelight

Special memories were created when Dallowgill’s church was filled with the sound of Christmas songs performed by the newly formed ‘Delta Primary Choir’.

Pupils from Delta and Coast and Vale joined together for Christmas by Candlelight. Director of Learning (Music) Megan Rowley, who organised the event, conducted the children. A big team effort ensured the
event, and time leading up to it, ran smoothly. The children’s parents and members of the Dallowgill community joined staff from both Trusts at the celebration, the first concert at the newly transformed building.

For many locals, it was the first time they had stepped into the former St Peter’s Church since the Trust had bought and restored it after years of lying empty. Like everyone else, they were delighted to see it back in use.

The anticipation built as Roman from Friarage Community Primary School in Scarborough took to
the stage and filled the wonderful space with his impressive violin playing. He was joined on stage by children from Delta academies Norbridge, Serlby Park, Morley Place, Pheasant Bank, Worlaby and Wybers Wood. Coast and Vale was represented by pupils from Friarage and Newby and Scalby Primary School.

The audience knew they were in for a treat when the first bars of Sparkle and Shine, from hit film
‘Nativity!’, rang out, complete with motions. The programme blended the traditional with more modern favourites. The children received a deserved standing ovation and gave the delighted audience an encore.

Associate Chief Executive Officer Gillian Wiles thanked all involved, including Megan and centre manager Trevor Holmes. Trevor hosted the children at Dallowgill the previous night, with new friendships forged between children and staff over toasted marshmallows.

Trevor revealed more than 6,000 children had stayed at the centre since its opening three years
ago and it is booked up 6 days a week, every week, until the end of the academic year.