Marking an active start to the Advent season, the Voluntary Service at New Hall School in Chelmsford, hosted the organisation’s annual Christmas party for the Shaftesbury Group, a social group for local adults in the School’s North Gallery. On arrival, the guests were greeted by the Year 12 leaders and volunteers and were entertained with some rousing Christmas carols. The Shaftesbury Group enjoyed some excellent festive food, had fun creating memories in the photo booth, and took turns displaying their musical talents by singing along to classic karaoke songs. The evening ended with a special visit from Father Christmas, who presented the excited guests with gifts donated through the NHVS Christmas appeal.

The NHVS also hosted the annual Christmas Lunch in the North Gallery for their elderly lunch group guests. The guests enjoyed a wonderful Christmas dinner, served by NHVS Year 12 student leaders, and were entertained by the Infant Choir, who sang beautifully.  At the end of the lunch, guests were presented with their wrapped Christmas hampers, packed by members of the NHVS volunteer team, with donations from the Christmas Hamper Appeal.