Thomas the donkey was a fan favourite at the Gloucestershire carol service, held at the Royal Agricultural University in Cirencester.

Supporters filled the university’s chapel for a service led by Canon Graham Morris. Before moving to Gloucestershire, Canon Morris lived on the Isle of Wight where he supported R.A.B.I’s county committee. He was keen to stay involved with the charity and helped organise the first carol service in Cirencester.

Guests were in for a surprise as the evening had no order of service, instead Rev. Morris left it up to the audience which carols they wanted to sing. Members of Newent YFC performed an unconventional nativity, with one of the shepherds doubling as the angel Gabriel. Katie Hall, chair of the NFYFC, also gave a reading.

“It’s very surreal being here today. Thirty years ago, I was organising the carol service here,” said deputy chair Joshua Hosier, who attended the university back when it was the Royal Agricultural College. He used to play the organ in the very chapel the carols were held.

“R.A.B.I is still as relevant today as it was back then, maybe even more so. We’ve all seen what the weather has been like this autumn, flooding has affected so many farming families. Every pound makes a difference to people’s lives, so thank you all for your donations.”

Can you help us spread the festive cheer? Support our Christmas Hamper Campaign.