After a week of torrential rain, flooding and a park which could easily have turned into Worthing’s new swimming pool, Friday 21st December was actually dry and sunny. It had already been decided to hold the Carol singing in the MUGA (multi-use games area) where the ground was considerably firmer and safer.

All the usual permissions had been obtained – licenses, charity collections alcohol, and Risk Assessments, we just needed the crowds. Refreshments in the form of mulled wine, very kindly supplied by the George and Dragon, and teas, coffees and mince pies were all laid on. A snow machine was puffing out clouds of snow, and a bubble machine which again had been kindly donated by the Party Shop at Broadwater, sent up thousands of bubbles like glass baubles into the night air.

Hazel, the Minister from West Worthing Baptist Church, lead the singing, and the many children and adults who attended joined in enthusiastically, sending out Christmas messages throughout the park.

It was indeed a magical evening, with a visit from a certain gentleman in red adding to the festive occasion. Even though he was busy, he still made time to pay a visit to this special occasion and brought a sack full of treats for excited children.

I was asked several times in the weeks before the event what the Carols were in aid of, to which I replied that there was no reason for the event except to get the whole community together in the spirit of Christmas. Our Picnic in the Park at Tarring is held for the same reason and works well, so why not to something in the winter months and what better time of the year than Christmas.

Let’s hope we can hold this event again in 2013 and make it even bigger and better. Of course, it goes without saying that thanks are due to a very willing band of helpers and especially to Dave Hunt for providing sound and lighting.