A festive fundraiser which has taken place in the village for over 30 years is now more popular than ever.
The first Annual Alderley Edge Charity Carols Nite took place in 1981 when three buskers struck up in the Eaton family's Number 15 Wine Bar. The event took place at the Wine Bar every year until 2008, under the Wheeldons' management. The Charity Carols found its second home in 2013 at the Pickering family's Yard on South Street and now in its 35th year, the evening is so popular there's a repeat the next day.
Musician Fay Wertheimer said "Each year we're overwhelmed by the locals' loyalty, enthusiasm and generosity. It was always a family affair my four children loved and played for as teenagers. 35 years on, we're with the lovely Pickerings and my oldest still helps out. If this year we're as successful socially, musically and charity wise as last, it would be wonderful."
She added "Perhaps its quirky and moralistic origins keep this event going."
Jewish musician Fay Wertheimer hit upon fundraising via Christian carols in a wine bar as a way of connecting the two faiths and transcending any differences for the common good.
Since 1981, the annual event has raised over £30,000 which has been distributed to local charities chosen by the revellers, whose amazing singing - possibly aided by the food and booze consumed beforehand - raises the roof.
The Carols Nite is accompanied and led by Fay, family and friends of the Carlton Ensemble. The Yard's owners Sadie, Stuart and Jean Pickering plus musicians Sarah Morley, Heather Henshall ( violin), Jeremy Sassoon and Phil Smith ( trumpet), Danny Norbury and Ros Bevan (cello), Andrew Smith (trombone) and Fay (viola) are geared up for this year's event which has morphed into an Alderley Edge tradition.
Sadie aded "We're so proud to host the Charity Carols for the third time, We're a community business. It's lovely to be with our customers and friends at Christmas as part of this village tradition. We've become friends."
Annual Alderley Edge Charity Carols Nite will take place on Sunday 20th and Monday 21st December. Food will be served from 7pm and singing from just before 9pm.
Tickets are priced £30 each, including nibbles, main course and dessert with £15 from each ticket going to charity.
Email Sadie or call 01625586962 to book tickets.
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Last year you had some pre-carols entertainment from a great singer, hope you've organised something special for the 35th?