Christmas cheer was in full flow as hundreds of people gathered together in Norwich for a festive evening of traditional carols and music.

The EDP Festival of Carols got under way in the city last night in the stunning 15th century setting of St Andrew's Hall.

The event marks the beginning of the Christmas period for many in Norfolk, and yesterday people got into the festive spirit thanks to the beautiful voices of the Broadland Youth Choir and the EDP Festival of Carols' Choir.

This year's event was in support of the EDP We Care Appeal, which raises money for the Norfolk Millennium Trust for Carers.

EDP editor Nigel Pickover, who gave the first reading of the night, said: 'The Festival of Carols is a wonderful community celebration of Christmas and was enjoyed by everyone – we're delighted to have brought this to the people of East Anglia for so many years.'

An angelic voice from the youth choir started the service with the opening verse of Once in Royal David's City.

The Cawston Band, joined by the powerful voices of both choirs and the congregation, burst into life to fill the hall with the sound of music.

For the past 19 years, the EDP Festival of Carols' Choir has been meeting for the sole purpose of singing at the service.

The dedicated group meets every year in November to prepare for the concert.

Musical director Carole Tims said: 'They are the most delightful group of singers, and it is a great pleasure and privilege to be able to work with them each year.'

Meanwhile, the award-winning Broadland Youth Choir is one of the most highly regarded choirs in Britain.

It was formed in 1992 to allow young singers in the county to join together in music-making of the highest quality.

Both groups were supported this year by the Cawston Band, which was first formed in 1886 and is based at Horsham St Faith.

The We Care Appeal provides grants for carers who need help in their caring role. For more information about the appeal, visit www.wecareappeal.co.uk or call 01263 768339

Did you miss this fantastic festive event? There is still time to get a ticket for the Norwich Evening News carol service at St Peter Mancroft on Tuesday. Tickets, which must be bought in advance, can be obtained at the Norwich Evening News/EDP office at Prospect House, in Rouen Road, Norwich. They can also be bought online at www.eveningnews24.co.uk or by calling 01603 628311.

Are you hosting a charity Christmas event? Email luke.powell@archant.co.uk