Carollers looking for something a little different this festive season can join the Unity Carollers as they bring century-old songs from the North of England to pubs across the Isle of Wight, including Ryde, Yarmouth, and Northwood.
The Island-based group will be visiting a number of venues in the run-up to Christmas, offering upbeat and inclusive carol sessions featuring rare and joyful tunes.
Among the highlights is a local gem – a traditional Isle of Wight version of Hark, Hark, What News The Angels Bring from Newchurch, dated 1863.
The Unity Carollers are led by collaborators Richard Hughes and Sue Cain, supported by a group of dedicated singers and musicians.
Each session includes free word sheets and a small backing band to encourage everyone to join in, whether they consider themselves singers or not.
The carol events will take place at the following venues:
- Star Coffee and Ale House, Ryde – Sunday (30th November) from 12:00
- Wheatsheaf, Yarmouth – Friday (5th December) from 19:00 to 21:00
- Traveller’s Joy, Northwood – Friday (12th December), 19:00 for a 19:30 start, featuring handbells
- Streets around Horseshoe Inn, Northwood – Monday (15th December), starting at 18:15 and continuing in the pub afterwards
Organisers have extended thanks to the local landlords and teams at each venue for supporting the events.
Looking forward to the Northern songs
so many fond memories.