Christmas, Choirs And Carols At The Diabetes UK Cymru Cathedral Concert 2015

This evening I was fortunate enough to have been asked to attend the Diabetes UK Cymru and Cantemus Chamber Choir charity concert that was held amongst the stunning backdrop of Llandaff Cathedral, to do a reading. The reading that I was given was an absolute classic - 'Twas the night before Christmas', and although it isn't quite Christmas Eve yet, the atmosphere in the cathedral was magical, as was the evening.

Into The Heart Photography - Capture Me Doing My Reading

The whole event was presided over by the legendary Eddie Butler, who is synonymous with Welsh sporting commentary, since having finished his international rugby career. Eddie had a voice you could listen to for ages and introduced the first reader of the night, who was the Welsh Minister for Health Prof. Mark Drakeford. Minister Drakeford has been incredibly supportive over the past year of the diabetes charity, often attending events and helping raise awareness and the profile of the condition.

Welsh Minister For Health Professor Mark Drakeford

Other readers included Welsh Liberal Democrat Eluned Parrott, Richard Lane OBE the CEO of Diabetes UK and Beth Baldwin who along with her family has been an incredible fundraiser and supporter of the charity this year. Since they were sadly touched by diabetes, through losing their son Peter to it through undiagnosed complications. Beth gave an inspiring speech about the value of each individual person and what they can give in terms of time, support and money to help raise awareness of the condition.

Into The Heart Photography - Eddie Butler

Each reading was accompanied by the singing of traditional carols from the congregation and the beautiful voices of the Cantemus Choir and accompanying brass band. The choir even had a diabetes link because one of the talented soloists is also a diabetes specialist doctor. Also by coincidence the choir included my former form tutor from high school, who was there for me throughout my school life and especially when I was diagnosed with type 1. All of which contributed to a wonderful and enjoyable evening that got us all in the Christmas spirit whilst raising money for a great cause.

Into The Heart Photography - The Cantemus Chamber Choir 

Into The Heart Photography Captures The Concert In Full Swing

With many thanks to the wonderfully talented Andrew from Into the Heart Photography, who not only gave his time to take these lovely photographs as a Diabetes UK volunteer, capturing the spirit of the concert. But who kindly allowed me to use them for this blog too.