Young people, teachers and the wider community united in an evening of song at Bolton School Boys' Division's Christmas Festival.

Festive classics including 'Once in Royal David’s City', 'See Amid the Winter’s Snow', 'Hark! The Herald Angels Sing!', 'Joy to the World!', 'Mary’s Boy Child', 'Shine Jesus Shine', and 'O Come, all ye Faithful!' were enjoyed by all.

A spokesperson for the school said: "In what was a joyous evening of singing and rejoicing, backed by a full orchestra, the congregation certainly played its part.  It was quickly on its feet and, throughout the evening, offered its voice to festive classics."

The Lower School Choir’s rendition of 'Gabriel’s Message' and the Chamber Choir’s singing of 'A Voice, A Chime' provided quieter moments. 

The Bolton News: Boys singing at the festivalBoys singing at the festival (Image: Karl Kramer Photography)

Sixth formers Billy Burrows and Rishi Narla offered up a duet of 'When Love Was Born and the String Quartet performed an arresting Fantasia on the Ukrainian Bell Carol.

Interwoven throughout the evening were thoughtful readings, reflections and prayers, read by the reverend Alan Saunders, vicar of St Peter’s Church in Halliwell, head of foundation Mr Britton, and by pupils from across the year groups.

A collection was also passed round for Wishing on a Star and the Rosa Mystica Foundation.

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