Her Royal Highness's Yearly Yuletide Musical Celebration Honours Community Volunteers

Catherine, Princess of Wales, is presiding over her customary Yuletide celebration at the historic Abbey, with a congregation comprising royals, celebrities and local heroes who have supported their local areas.

The 1,600 guests will hear a mix of carols, music and readings from actors such as Chiwetel Ejiofor and Kate Winslet.

A Theme of Love and Generosity

The central message of the concert, held in the candle-lit Abbey on Friday, is compassion and demonstrating care for others.

Among the guests will be Jonathan and Anna Cordiner, whose child passed away from a brain cancer, and who founded an organisation, Kayleigh's Wee Stars, to help households where there is a youngster facing a life-limiting condition.

"The time, care and compassion you give, often without fanfare or recognition, and without any hope for reward or acknowledgement, make an profound impact to the circumstances of individuals," Her Royal Highness stated in a message before the festive gathering.

A Gradual Return

The princess has been making her own steady comeback to the public eye following her health challenges and treatment, in November making her initial major address in two years, in which she reflected on recognising the "discreet, frequently unseen labour of caregivers".

Musical Talent and Access

Guests arriving at the Abbey can listen to young musicians backed by the Future Talent charity, established in part by the former royal to increase availability of musical tuition.

An 18-year-old named Carys Wood, who performs on the trumpet and is from Wales, has been supported by the organisation, with awards contributing to musical instruments, lessons and travel costs - and she said it was "awesome" to be taking part in the concert.

"Musical pursuits are frequently pricey," she stated. She is now studying at the renowned conservatoire, and added that "all people deserve the chance" to develop their musical skills.

Generations Gathering

Carys's 11-year-old sister, Eliza, who is a euphonium player, will be present at the Abbey. "It's unbelievable that I get to perform here in front of so many distinguished guests," she said.

Attending the service will be people from various age groups.

That will feature nine-year-old Saphia Turner, winner of a prize for youthful altruism, who produces drawings and undertakes charity feats to raise money for food banks.

Yuletide Atmosphere and Acts

The Abbey has been decorated with specially made wreaths, with celebrity baker Mary Berry and floral designer Simon Lycett helping to make them.

Taking to the stage will be Katie Melua, the Westminster Abbey choristers and a Cornish sea shanty group, Fisherman's Friends, who said the opportunity to perform was "the perfect culmination."

The festive event titled 'Together at Christmas' will be aired by ITV1 on Christmas Eve.