The disabled veterans who live at The Royal Star & Garter Home in Surbiton were joined by family, friends and supporters for the Starlight Service at St Matthew’s Church, Surbiton, on Sunday 4 December.

Reverend Helen Hancock led the special festive service, which celebrated loved ones, past and present, through music and readings. The Charity’s choir, The Star & Garter Singers, made their first official appearance, singing Christmas classics such as Winter Wonderland and I Saw Three Ships.

Denise Prior Terry, whose beloved father, Ernie Prior, sadly passed away at the Surbiton Home in July, commented: “This was a beautiful service which is appreciated and brings comfort to those attending in memory of their loved ones.”

Diana Greenman volunteers at the Surbiton Home where her much-loved father, Eric Jordan, was also a resident. Diana also helped to set up The Star & Garter Singers with Simon Hancock, and said: “The Starlight Service was absolutely beautiful and extremely moving.”

The congregation got together afterwards for mulled wine, mince pies and to hang their star-shaped messages to loved ones on the Christmas tree.