After a different year, students, parents, staff and the Exeter community joined together once again to celebrate the start of the festive season and raise money for charity at Exeter College’s Festival of Carols, held in the iconic setting of Exeter Cathedral. 

“Last night’s Festival of Carols was simply spectacular! It was a joy to see our amazing students and staff combining to create something truly magical for the community to get us all in the Christmas spirit,”

John Laramy CBE, Principal and Chief Executive

The Festival of Carols celebrates the college’s exceptionally talented students, with performances from the College Chamber Orchestra, student choirs, soloists and readers. Although free to attend, the event raises important funds for the college’s nominated Charity of the Year through donations generously given on the night.  

This year, a massive £1,037.53 was raised for Cancer Research UK, which will go towards world-class research in the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of cancer.  

The evening started with a welcome address from Exeter College Principal and Chief Executive John Laramy CBE before an atmospheric candlelit student procession through the nave.   

Speaking after the event, John Laramy said, “Last night’s Festival of Carols was simply spectacular! It was a joy to see our amazing students and staff combining to create something truly magical for the community to get us all in the Christmas spirit, but was also a moment to reflect on the world we live in and the challenges we face, both current and ongoing.  The setting of the Cathedral is always iconic, but this year in particular the Festival of Carols felt like the perfect way to kick off the festive season and raise some important funds for Cancer Research UK.” 

The service was officiated by Prebendary Nigel Guthrie of St David’s Church and The Venerable David Gunn-Johnson of Exeter Cathedral. Students from across the college’s curriculum also did readings, including Grace Pamplin, who is studying for the International Baccalaureate.  

Before the service, Grace said, “I’m really excited to show off what Exeter college has to offer in terms of talent and skill, and just show the rich community we have and share.” 

The Festival of Carols was kindly sponsored by Taylor Lewis and the programme was sponsored by Pollards Print.