Newcastle and Stafford Colleges Group Ushers in Festive Cheer with Annual Carol Service

In a heartwarming celebration of the season, Newcastle and Stafford Colleges Group (NSCG) held its annual end-of-year carol service, uniting staff and students in the spirit of joy and Christmas.

At Newcastle, the picturesque St George's Church provided the backdrop for the enchanting service, led by Reverend Martin Ball, the College Chaplain from the Parish of St George’s. Trinity Davis, A Level student at Newcastle College and the Young Poet Laureate for Staffordshire, added a touch of literary magic by reciting her original poem "Dreams in December" crafted especially for the occasion.

The congregation joined in harmonious renditions of classic Christmas carols such as "Hark the Herald Angels Sing" and "Come All Ye Faithful," and the service was peppered with heartfelt readings by members of the Students' Union including President Shar Owsu.

NSCG Principal and CEO Craig Hodgson brought the service to the close with a heartfelt message of hope and best wishes for the season to all.

Shortly after, in Stafford, the festive spirit echoed once more through the halls of Collegiate Church of Saint Mary, where staff and students from Stafford College gathered together. The Mayor and Mayoress of Stafford received a warm welcome, accompanied by NSCG Principal Craig Hodgson and the Deputy Lord Lieutenant introduced by Carl Riding.

Father Richard Grigson, the College Chaplain from St Mary’s, led a poignant service, and the congregation joyfully participated in singing classic Christmas carols, including "Ding Dong! Merrily on High" and "O Little Town of Bethlehem." Members of the Students' Union added their voices through readings, contributing to the overall warmth of the gathering.

Expressing gratitude to all involved, Craig Hodgson once again extended special thanks to those who dedicated their time and effort to make the events a resounding success, wishing the entire college and the local communities of Newcastle and Stafford a season filled with joy, peace, and festive merriment.