Since 2013, the leading animal charity has hosted a Carol Concert every December at St Luke’s Church in Chelsea. But, with Coronavirus putting a halt to usual proceedings this year, Battersea will instead be bringing Christmas to people’s homes free of charge on Facebook, live from its historic centre in the heart of London at 7.30pm on Thursday 17 December.

Friend of Battersea, Sue Perkins, will host the event to spread a bit of the festive cheer we’re all in need of this year. We will also have readings from a line-up of celebrity supporters including Battersea Ambassador Dame Jacqueline Wilson and Radio 1’s Greg James, as well as carols from our talented singers, led by Greg Morris*, and heart-warming stories about some of our very special animals.

Battersea has been here for dogs and cats for 160 years, through two World Wars, and it’s clearer than ever that its help is still needed. The animal charity is a place that never stops, and it centres remain open to animals with nowhere else to go 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Battersea’s Chief Executive, Claire Horton CBE, says, “Like many charities, Battersea has been hit by the Coronavirus crisis. As we receive no Government funding, it’s only thanks to the public’s unwavering generosity that we can continue to provide dogs and cats with the vital care they need – not only at Christmas but all year round.”

Carol Concert viewers can make a donation on the night via the Facebook donate button, by texting BATTERSEA followed by 5, 10 or 20 to 70025 to donate £5, £10 or £20, or by bidding on one of our amazing online silent auction prizes.

Whether in a position to donate or not, all are welcome to join in an evening of sing-along fun and festivities without having to leave the comfort of their living room. The event is free to watch, and supporters can tune in live even if they don't have a Facebook account - simply visit the Battersea Facebook page on Thursday 17 December at 7:30pm.

Claire says, “After what’s been a difficult year, it’s time for animal lovers across Britain to warm up their vocal cords as well as their mince pies, settle down on the sofa, and get ready to tune in and sing out loud. Even those who consider their vocal styling to be more ‘howler’ than ‘cat’s whiskers’; we want all corners of Britain to join Battersea for what promises to be a very magical night. This Christmas, let’s raise our voices to honour rescue animals everywhere that don’t have a voice of their own.”

HOW TO GET INVOLVED

- Join our Facebook event through battersea.org.uk/support-us/christmas-carol-concert and we will remind you when the virtual Christmas carol concert is about to start.

- You can still watch live, even if you don't have a Facebook account - just visit the Battersea Facebook page on Thursday 17 December at 7:30pm.

- Make a donation on the night via Facebook, by texting BATTERSEA followed by 5, 10 or 20 to 70025 to donate £5, £10 or £20, or bid on our amazing prizes in the online auction.

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