Romsey Abbey steps in to host carol concert after a downpour

The Christmas carol concert was set to be held in the Market Place at 7pm on December 19, but the rain forced the event indoors.

Fortunately, the abbey could accommodate the crowds of between 800 and 900 people, who came to enjoy Michelmersh Silver Band lead them in singing.

Vicar of Romsey Abbey, Rev Thomas Wharton, said: “The weather was atrocious so the call to move inside the abbey was made at about 3.30pm.

"News travelled fast and I think everyone was so pleased to be meeting and singing in the dry and warmth of Romsey Abbey. The abbey was packed to the rafters. All the seats in the side aisles, the back and at the front of the abbey were full and extra seats needed to be set up. There may have been around 800-900 people in the abbey. 

"Michelmersh Silver Band led the carols beautifully with Martin Seymour, the Abbey's director of music, conducting the crowd. It turned out to be a wonderful, community sing and celebration of Christmas, again showing Romsey at its best. 

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“Thanks to the Abbey staff and volunteers, and especially to Romsey Rotary for putting on the event. I believe over £3,000 was raised for Rotary's chosen charities.”

In a Facebook post, Romsey Town Council praised the efforts of the abbey to host the event at such short notice.

A spokesman said: “What a fantastic evening with Romsey Rotary Carols and the Michelmersh Silver Band, Abbey Choirs and Romsey Youth Choir.

“Thank you so much to Romsey Abbey for bringing us all in from the rain and winds and being the perfect backdrop to a wonderful celebration of the voices from Romsey town.

“Great to hear from the deserving charities Romsey Young Carers and Alfie’s Wish.”