A New Cumnock woman has spoken of her pride at being invited to the Royal carol concert.
The annual festive celebration took place at Westminster Abbey and was attended by members of the Royal family, including the Prince and Princess of Wales, as well as many celebrities.
Georgette Fulton OBE said: “It was such a special day and I will treasure every moment. The service was heartwarming and I am so grateful to the Lord-Lieutenant of Ayrshire and Arran and The 9CC Group for helping me attend. When I arrived, I couldn’t believe I was sitting so close to Princess Kate. She is beautiful and her smiles light up the room.”
A £1k annual bursary from The 9CC Group to help fund people from Cumnock & Doon Valley attend royal events covered overnight accommodation and travel costs additional to the first-class train seats kindly provided by Avanti West Coast. The agreement with the Lieutenancy was signed last year.
William Stafford, the Vice Lord-Lieutenant said: “We are really grateful for the annual bursary which makes such a difference for those who need a little help otherwise they might miss out on such special occasions. There are many people in our communities who do so much for others without seeking recognition. It is important that they are recognised in some way
It was lovely that the Royal Foundation invited Georgette. She is truly deserving and has done so much for her community and local charities on a voluntary basis over many years.”
Georgette was awarded an OBE in 2015 for services to Care of Police Survivors, St Andrew's First Aid and the community in New Cumnock.
The carol concert, Together at Christmas, was broadcast on ITV on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. It included readings by Prince William, Kate Winslet, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Babatunde Aléshé and Joe Locke with musical performances from Hannah Waddingham, Dan Smith, Griff, Katie Melua and Cornish folk group, Fisherman’s Friends.
Now in its fifth year, the Westminster Abbey service took place alongside numerous community carol services across the UK, supported by William and Kate’s Royal Foundation charity. Georgette attended with her close friend Isobel Sykes.
Alex Baird, chair of The 9CC Group, said: “I’m delighted Georgette had such a memorable time and were able to provide bursary support. These royal events are a proud moment in people’s lives and removing obstacles to help our community attend is so important.”
For more information please refer to the 9CCG website
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