A volunteer at a hospice charity who was invited to the Westminster Abbey carol service attended by The King has described the experience as “truly memorable”.

Christina Wilson, a volunteer at Lewis-Manning Hospice Care, was nominated by the Deputy Lord-Lieutenant of Dorset to attend the service, entitled ‘Together at Christmas’.

It was hosted by The Princess of Wales and dedicated to the late Queen and all those who are no longer with us.

In attendance was The King and The Queen Consort, together with The Prince and Princess of Wales.

The service was conducted by The Very Rev. Dr David Hoyle MBE, Dean of Westminster.

It was sung by the Choir of Westminster Abbey, conducted by James O’Donnell, Organist and Master of the Choristers.

Christina, a former teacher, has been a volunteer at Lewis-Manning for over 17 years and has held a variety of roles, including receptionist and supporting day care patients.

She said: “It was a truly memorable day at the Abbey.

“The service itself was very diverse and I felt so privileged to be there amongst the many members of the Royal family.

“There were also many famous faces to be spotted, including Hugh Bonneville, Kristin Scott Thomas, both of whom did readings, as well as singers such as Craig David and even Mel C from the Spice Girls who gave a very different rendition of Silent Night with Alfie Boe, the English tenor and actor.

“We all joined in with the traditional carols and there was a very special and emotional moment when a Ukrainian children’s choir sang ‘Away in a Manger.’

“It was bitterly cold – I had about five layers under my coat! – as we queued up outside but all that was forgotten once we entered the warmth and magical atmosphere of the Abbey!”

Clare Gallie, Lewis-Manning Hospice Care’s CEO, said: “We have so many wonderful volunteers who support our charity.

“It was fantastic that Christina was nominated and chosen for this very special occasion, representing our hospice community.

“It sounded like an unforgettable occasion.”