Emmerdale stars lead the line-up for NSPCC’s Carols by Candlelight in Leeds
Two of Emmerdale’s best-loved actors, Laura Norton and Charlotte Bellamy, will join comedian Lloyd Griffith at this year’s Carols by Candlelight in Leeds Minster this week.
The much-loved Christmas service will return to Leeds after a ten-year break on Thursday, 11 December, to raise vital funds for Childline, the NSPCC’s 24-hour support service for children and young people.
Laura and Charlotte, known to millions of viewers as Kerry Wyatt and Laurel Thomas in ITV’s long-running soap, will perform a joint reading of The Night Before Christmas as part of the evening’s programme.
Charlotte Bellamy said: “It’s such a joy to be part of this year’s Carols by Candlelight. Leeds Minster is a beautiful venue and this is such an important cause, especially at this time of year.
“Childline is there for children when they need someone to listen, and the funds raised will make sure that support continues over Christmas and beyond.”
Laura Norton added: “Carols by Candlelight is such a lovely community event and it’s wonderful to see it return to Leeds after so long. I’m really looking forward to reading with Charlotte and being part of a night that’s all about coming together, singing, and supporting young people.”
The evening will also feature a performance from comedian and classical singer Lloyd Griffith (Ted Lasso, Inheritance), alongside music from three Leeds-based choirs - Headingley Voices, Free Range, and Cockburn Community Choir/Cockburn Vocals.
Doors open at 6.30pm, with refreshments and a small Christmas market offering handmade crafts. A limited number of VIP tickets are still available, giving supporters early entry from 6pm, complimentary mulled wine and mince pies, a gift bag, and an exclusive short performance inside the Minster before the main event.
Money raised will go towards the NSPCC’s Childline service, which offers free and confidential support to children 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The Leeds Childline base is one of 12 across the UK, where trained volunteers answer calls, emails and online chats from children who may feel they have nowhere else to turn.
This year’s event is sponsored by Resolver.com, a company that helps people resolve complaints and issues with businesses and service providers.
A Resolver spokesperson said: “We’re delighted to support Carols by Candlelight as it returns to Leeds.
"The work that Childline does for children and young people is invaluable, especially during the festive period, when many feel more isolated or anxious. Partnering with the NSPCC for this event reflects our commitment to helping people feel heard and supported, whether online or in their everyday lives.”
Tickets start at £11.55 and are available now at: https://rb.gy/2krmbi