For many people, Wimborne’s annual event of Carols in the Cornmarket signifies the true start of Christmas. It’s a chance for families and friends to take a pause, escape the commercialism of the season and come together with their community for a traditional sing-along of their favourite Christmas carols.
This magical, free event, which takes place on Friday 20th December, invites people to come and sing carols together in the historic setting of the town’s ancient Cornmarket, situated just off the High Street. The Cornmarket will be decorated with twinkling lanterns to add to the festive feel.
The event begins with an opening prayer. There will also be some readings interspersed with favourite carols that everyone can join in. Don’t worry about remembering the words – song sheets are provided! Helping the singing go with a swing are choristers from the Wimborne Minster church and the Broadstone Community Concert Band ably conducted by Damon Corio.
Since 2006, this community event has been organised jointly by Hilda Butler and Anthony Oliver, with only one year missed due to the Covid pandemic. Even heavy downpours one year didn’t dampen the spirits as the 600-strong audience decamped to the shelter of the Minster church.
Anthony Oliver said: “There’s something very special about this event. At about 5.45pm it looks like no one will show up and then suddenly people arrive in droves. With so many people moving into the new housing developments in and around Wimborne, we’d especially like to welcome residents new to the town to come along and join in.”
This free event is a fundraiser for the Minster Church so people are encouraged to bring cash with them if they would like to donate as there are no card readers available. Last year, an incredible £903 was raised. Anthony Oliver added: “People are also welcome to bring their own outdoor lanterns to add to the Christmas atmosphere.”
The event starts at 6pm in the Cornmarket and lasts for about an hour. It is sponsored by Wimborne BID and Wimborne’s independent opticians Optique 2000.
BID Chair Fiona Harwood said: “The BID is delighted to support this event which is a firm festive favourite in the town calendar, attracting hundreds of people to Wimborne and really embracing the community spirit we’re so lucky to have here.”