Chairman’s civic carol service brings community together to celebrate Christmas
A gentle glow of candlelight filled All Saints’ Parish Church, Gainsborough to mark West Lindsey District Council’s annual Civic Carol Service.
The event hosted by the chairman of the council, Coun Matt Boles, provided an opportunity to give thanks and to celebrate the strength of community as the year draws to a close.
Coun Boles was joined at the service with his partner Katie. He said: “It has been a great pleasure to welcome so many people to this year’s Civic Carol Service and I would like to thank you all for joining in our service.
“This evening reminds us of the importance of community, kindness and togetherness, something which I have been privileged to see across West Lindsey, during my year as chairman of the council.”
The service was conducted by Reverend Canon Steve Johnson and Reverend David Cotton and featured a rich programme of traditional and much-loved carols, bringing together communities from across the district and beyond for an evening of reflection, celebration and festive music.
The event was attended by civic dignitaries from across Greater Lincolnshire including the High Sheriff of Lincolnshire, David Chambers, alongside West Lindsey District Councillors and council officers.
Readings were delivered by Deputy Leader of the council, Coun Moira Westley, vice chair of the council, Coun John Barrett, Reverend David Cotton, Chief Executive of the council, Paul Burkinshaw, and Assistant Director of People and Democratic Services, Lisa Langdon.
Coub Boles added: “I would like to thank everyone who attended and those who took part in the service, and to All Saints’ Parish Church for hosting us so graciously. On behalf of West Lindsey District Council, I would like to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a happy, healthy and prosperous 2026.”
Special thanks went to the talented All Saints Singers and Phil Hotham, the All Saints organist.