Joy for community champions at carol service

The Lord Lieutenant of Staffordshire, Mr Ian Dudson (left), hosted the carol service for pillars of the local community including Sarah Day (centre left)

A mother who supports families after her own child died from sepsis said it was an "absolute joy" to attend a special carol service for community minded people.

Sarah Day was one of 260 guests from across the county invited by the King's representative in Staffordshire.

Each attendee received a letter from Catherine, Princess of Wales, thanking them for the empathy they have shown people in their communities.

"It's lovely to know the church is full of people who are deserving," said child cancer charity worker Rachael Olley, "everyone has a story, don't they?"

Together At Christmas was held at St Mary the Virgin Parish Church on Friday in Uttoxeter and featured songs from a combination of six local choirs.

The service was one of 15 regional events across the UK, inspired by the princess' Westminster Abbey service.

People like Sarah Day were invited by the Lord Lieutenant of Staffordshire for the love, kindness, and empathy they have demonstrated.

Sarah Day, from Werrington, lost her son Dylan to sepsis and has since supported families dealing with the life-threatening condition.

"It's emotional, but I feel so privileged and honoured when someone trusts me with their feelings," she said.

"I just don't want anyone to feel alone."

Paul Stubbs is involved with various charities around Stafford and Stone, spending much of his time collecting surplus food from supermarkets to be distributed at food banks.

"Sometimes when you're doing work for charity you can feel like you're doing it and no one notices or recognises it," he said.

"But when you come to a service like this - to bring people together - you feel like you've been recognised.

"What better way to do that than a carol service at Christmas?"