The seven-strong group of friends were all keen to meet up to mark the start of Advent, especially as the Alumnae Reunion in October had to be held as a virtual event, foiling their plans for a big get-together.

“It was a very special service and a joy to be there,” said Diana Keiller (née Swain), who encouraged the friends to meet up, as well as braving the snow to give her reading The Shepherds go to the Manger. 

She is seen here with some of her fellow P Class: Back Row (L to R):  Sabina Lovibond, Caroline Dalal, Judy White (née Boyce). Front Row (L to R):  Diana Keiller (née Swain), Pauline Simpson, Val Rushton (née Smith), Annie Dennis (née Sykes).

The fine acoustics and the setting of the beautiful church in the Barbican, close to where the school was founded, means it is always one of the highlights of the LEH calendar, and this year was no exception. The talented Holles Singers and Chamber Choir sang especially beautifully, and the effect really was exhilarating.

The Christmas story was told through traditional Bible readings and poems given by a number of our alumnae as well as the Head Girl team, Chair of the Governors David King, the Head Mistress Heather Hanbury and the Deputy Head David James.

In addition to Diana, readings were given by Hazel Mann (Class 1976), Ellie De Souza (Class of 2021) and Jiya Saggu (Class of 2018). The final alumna reader was Sophie Littler (Class of 2011), who said:  “It was a honour to be asked to do a reading and it was such a great evening. I was blown away with the quality of the singing from the choir.”

The service was conducted by the Curate of St Giles, the Reverend Alex Norris, who said afterwards:  “It was a joy to have the church filled last night and to have LEH with us. The standard of the music and readings was very high, it made the service so special. Wishing you and all alumnae the best for Advent and Christmas when it finally arrives.”

The congregation wore masks throughout, but it didn’t dampen spirits or enthusiasm. To be back again with a live service after an absence of a year due to lockdown, was all the more moving and all left with hearts lifted, thinking of the festive season ahead.