Carols on the Doorstep is an initiative aimed at uniting Shropshire in a traditional Christmas celebration.
It will take place on December 16, repeated on Christmas Eve and is supported by BBC Radio Shropshire. Organisers are hoping the idea will raise money for a host of different charities.
My Shrewsbury magazine has joined forces with Shropshire Festivals to organise the event. They are asking everyone to sing carols on their doorsteps to bring the county together in festive spirit.
BBC Radio Shropshire will broadcast a set list of carols and Christmas songs to help everyone keep in time – or streets can choose to organise their own live ‘doorstep’ music, all socially distanced of course.
“With our lights switch-on and carols in the square cancelled this year we wanted to create something for people to look forward to and to create a sense of togetherness without risking anyone’s health,” said Katy Rink, editor of My Shrewsbury magazine who came up with the idea.
“We hope that Carols on the Doorstep will keep music live this Christmas and bring joy to families and neighbours, in the same way that we enjoyed Clap for Carers. Social distancing is obviously a key priority – but a trumpet at the end of the street can make a lot of noise!”
My Shrewsbury is working with events company Shropshire Festivals to help get the word out. Beth Heath, their aptly named ‘Director of Fun’ said: “Obviously all of our major events have been cancelled this year, so it’s brilliant to be able to do something to support our local community and spread a bit of Christmas joy! The charity sector has also struggled due to so many fundraising events being cancelled this year. The idea is that streets can choose to collect for their chosen charity, whilst in Shrewsbury, we’ll be collecting for the Shrewsbury Food Hub to help combat the growing problem of food insecurity.”
“We are asking everyone across the country to get on board and share the idea – and of course join with us on December 16 at 6pm and again at the same time on Christmas Eve.”
Visit www.doorstepcarols.co.uk for more information.
