Beyond Housing hands out the goodies at community carol event

Carol singing children from Grangetown Primary School enjoyed an unexpected sweet treat during their annual singing around the Christmas tree event, as Beyond Housing staff members handed out bumper bundles of chocolate coins.

Usually taking place in the first week of December, the carol singing event has become firmly established as a real community favourite, bringing people of all ages together as the festive season gets under way.

Beyond Housing has helped to support the event in the past but took more of a joint-lead role this year by joining the organising partnership of Redcar & Cleveland Borough Council, which supplied the tree and lights, Grangetown Primary School, which supplied carols and Christmas cheer, and the community-led Grangetown Events Group, which pulled the whole thing together.

Stephanie Lake, Beyond Housing community connector coordinator, said: “It’s a wonderful little event that starts the Christmas season on a high note, it brings families and residents together that may not usually be able to meet, at what can be a stressful time of year, to enjoy a light hearted Christmassy sing-a-long.”

Natalie Connelly, Beyond Housing community connector, added: “It’s definitely helped me get into the Christmas spirit – and it was obvious to see that the children and parents loved it!”