A carol service raised the roof at Ely Cathedral and thousands for specialist care

Cambs Times: Papworth Hospital Charity Carol Service at Ely Cathedral,Papworth Hospital Charity Carol Service at Ely Cathedral, (Image: Archant)

Hundreds of people packed the Cathedral for Papworth Hospital’s annual carol service on Saturday, raising thousands for lifesaving care.

Cambs Times: Papworth Hospital Charity Carol Service at Ely Cathedral, (l-r) Dr Keith McNeill, Chief Executive of Addenbrookes, Papworth Hospital Chaplin Gareth Rowlands, Papworth Hospital Chief Executive Steve Bridge, and Lord FairhavenPapworth Hospital Charity Carol Service at Ely Cathedral, (l-r) Dr Keith McNeill, Chief Executive of Addenbrookes, Papworth Hospital Chaplin Gareth Rowlands, Papworth Hospital Chief Executive Steve Bridge, and Lord Fairhaven (Image: Archant)

Families came together to start Christmas celebrations early with a mixture of festive carols and poignant readings from staff and supporters, who shared how special this time of year was thanks to lifesaving care at Papworth.

Cambs Times: Claire and Emily BraybrookClaire and Emily Braybrook (Image: Archant)

One of the readers, Clare Braybrook, said the occasion was extra special for her family after her and her unborn baby Emily’s lives were saved by surgeons at Papworth, the country’s leading heart and lung hospital.

She said: “For me this was a very special occasion when I could join others in celebrating all the marvellous work which is carried out at the hospital.

“Without the skill of the medical teams and other staff at Papworth I would not be celebrating Christmas with my family, I am truly grateful for the life they have given me.”

Kate Lancaster, corporate services director at Papworth Hospital, said that the carol service was a great success, not only bringing families together but also raising more than £3,600 for vital services.

She said: “Our annual carol service has once again proved to be a huge hit with our supporters who take this opportunity to come together and celebrate this special time with their loved ones – something that some may not have been able to do had they not been cared for here at Papworth.

“I am delighted that the event has also managed to raise £3,600 so far, with money still coming in. This will go towards lifesaving care at Papworth Hospital.”