Monday 17th December
Truro Cathedral
Cornwall Fire and Rescue Service and Devon and Cornwall Police Constabulary Carol Service
Pipers: Nigel, Alex Mc, Miranda, Keith G, Tom, Stuart, Chris, David, Alex D
Drummers: Snare – James, Tenor – Amber, Bass – Keith I
It had been a wet and windy day and it would seem the evening promised no better weather. The Band was to assemble in the lower multi storey car park for a warm-up at 6.30 before the actual carol service at 7.30. The lit-up Cathedral was majestic with surrounding street decorations and impressive Christmas tree all ablaze with lights.
There was a good turn out of nine pipers and three drummers in spite of the dismal weather and brisk wind. They played on the steps as the congregation entered the cathedral doors. When the pews had filled up, the Mayor of Truro and the Lord Lieutenant of Cornwall were escorted to their seats at the front of the Nave. The Dean did a welcome speech and a carol followed. Prayers followed and then The First Reading by a Fire Cadet. In between the next three carols the Second and Third Reading were read by the Deputy Chief Fire Officer and Policing Commander.
It was at the fourth reading where “The Shepherds go to the Manger” that the Band rose and came to face the Congregation. The band’s rendition of “Highland Cathedral” was a beautiful sound filling the Cathedral to its highest reaches and to every far corner of the building. After the perfect finish there followed some enthusiastic clapping from the packed congregation. The Police Chaplain and Chaplain to the Bishop of Truro then spoke. The Choir of Halwyn a Gan sang a lovely Cornish carol and finished with The Holly and the Ivy. After the collection the standards were returned and a final carol was sung. Kernow Pipes & Drums again played on the Cathedral steps for those not stopping for a welcome cup of tea/coffee and mince pie courtesy of the WVS. Outside the rain had stopped and the wind had calmed. A spectacular finish to our 2012 engagements.
