Choir spreads Christmas cheer at Grainger Market

The Choir from St John Vianney Catholic Primary in West Denton performed a range of seasonal classics for the shoppers, including ‘Ding Dong Merrily’, ‘Jingle Bells’, and ‘Away in a Manger’.

It was the second time the Year 5 and 6 children at the school, which is part of the Bishop Bewick Catholic Education Trust, had been invited to sing at the event, where they were led by Year 5 Class Teacher and Music Lead Katherine Dolphin.

“These events are important as the children attend Choir each week,” said Year 6 Teacher Judith Black. “This is a wonderful occasion to showcase their singing talents and hard work, not only to parents, but the wider community.

“It is a fabulous opportunity for many children to perform for an audience that they may not have had before.”

The school’s young singers also had a key role to play in morning and afternoon Christmas Carol Services, which took place at St John Vianney Church and involved 120 children from Years 5 and 6.

Carols included ‘O Come All Ye Faithful’, ‘The Angel Gabriel from Heaven Came’, ‘O Little Town of Bethlehem', ‘O Holy Night’, and ‘Ding Dong Merrily’, while smaller groups sang single verses, or performed readings.

“We have always had a carol service, but this was our first time at St John Vianney’s Church,” continued Mrs Black.

“The size, acoustics, and ambience of the church made it the perfect setting for this Christmas Service.

“These events bring our faith community together in this most holy season.”