BBC radio Cornwall hold a Precious Lives Carol Concert 2008

Hundreds of people packed Truro Cathedral on Tuesday 9 December for BBC Radio Cornwall's annual Carol Concert. The evening was recorded for broadcast on Christmas Day and Boxing Day. You can also hear it on the BBC Cornwall website. See photo gallery.

BBC Radio Cornwall's Carol Concert is always a popular festive event. The magnificent Truro Cathedral was full as people braved the cold weather to receive a warm welcome.

Canon Philip Lambert opened the evening with a seasonal prayer. Along with BBC Radio Cornwall staff the congregation sang out loud and proud with seasonal favourites like 'While Shepherds Watched' and 'O Little Town of Bethlehem'.

Special guests on the evening included popular pianist and organist Jonathan Delbridge, Lostwithiel Town Band, Liskerret Male Voice Choir, the Cornwall Boys Choir and the 'Boy from Bude' Ray Shaddick made a welcome return to the Carol Concert.

BBC Radio Cornwall staff also took part in the carol concert. Michael Taylor and Daphne Skinnard performed duets together including 'Annie's Song'.

Rachel Scofield sang 'The Coventry Carol', and Matt Shepherd performed a couple of acoustic Elvis Christmas songs backed by BBC Radio 1's Chartblog producer Fraser McAlpine.

The evening's comperes were Weekend Breakfast presenter Tim Hubbard and Daphne Skinnard, BBC Radio Cornwall's Assistant Managing Editor.

The radio station's support of the Precious Lives Appeal was also featured in the Carol Concert, with readings from Eddie Farwell the co-founder of Children's Hospice South West, and Matt Way.

Matt and his wife Claire have been fundraising for the Precious Lives Appeal after the loss of their son Joe. Matt spoke about Joe and the importance of the 'Little Harbour' hospice which will be built in Porthpean near St Austell.

There were readings throughout the evening from BBC Radio Cornwall staff including Martin Bailie, Donna Birrell, Nina Davey, Claire Hawke, Lisa Woodruff and Amy Gladwell.

The Carol Concert was broadcast in two parts on BBC Radio Cornwall, at 1pm on Christmas Day and 1pm on Boxing Day. Or re-visit this page at Christmas to hear the service online.

Matt also gave a live interview New years day on the breakfast show as well Joe’s story being part of the Precious Lives documentary that was aired again on New years day.