The Princess of Wales has invited families affected by the Southport knife attacks to her fourth annual Together at Christmas carol service, Kensington Palace announced. The event will take place at Westminster Abbey on 6 December, marking a year in which the princess has largely stepped back from public duties following her cancer diagnosis.
This year’s service holds special significance as it follows the princess’s first public engagement since completing chemotherapy. Last month, she visited Southport with the Prince of Wales, where they met privately with the bereaved families of three children tragically killed in the July attack on a children’s dance group. The victims, Bebe King (6), Elsie Dot Stancombe (7), and Alice Dasilva Aguiar (9), lost their lives in the knife attack, which shocked the local community.
Royal sources revealed that the princess decided to attend the visit to Southport to show her “support, empathy, and compassion to the local community.” The royal couple also conveyed the families’ gratitude to the emergency responders who were involved in the aftermath of the tragedy.
The Together at Christmas carol service is organized by the Royal Foundation, the charity spearheaded by the Prince and Princess of Wales. This year’s event will welcome around 1,600 guests, including members of the Royal Family, individuals nominated by Royal Family charities, and volunteers and professionals who have demonstrated exceptional efforts to support others.
Musical performances by acclaimed artists such as Paloma Faith, Olivia Dean, and Gregory Porter will enrich the evening. The service will be broadcast on ITV1 as part of a special Christmas Eve program, allowing viewers across the UK to join in the celebration.
Beyond the Westminster Abbey event, 15 additional Together at Christmas carol services will take place across the UK. Notable locations include the Royal Cornwall Hospital in Truro and Blackpool Tower Circus, ensuring the event reaches communities nationwide.
Kensington Palace described the service as “a moment to reflect upon the importance of love and empathy, and how much we need each other, especially in the most difficult times of our lives.” The princess hopes to highlight and celebrate individuals who have gone above and beyond to inspire, comfort, and support those in need.
This poignant Christmas event emphasizes the princess’s dedication to uplifting communities and reminding the nation of the enduring power of love and empathy.
