FOLLOWING a record turnout at this year’s Windsor light switch on, the town’s Carols On The Hill saw hundreds of families gather for an evening of Christmas celebrations.

The event, held outside Windsor’s iconic landmark on December 10, welcomed the community to enjoy its traditional carol service.

And special guests The Mayor of The Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead Cllr John Story and The Mayoress Barbara Story joined in with the festivities.

Featuring the Band of the Household Cavalry, live music was played around the town’s Christmas tree.

Starting of with a ‘Seasonal Medley’, as part of the Windsor and Eton Living Advent Calendar, the band went on to accompany the carol service.

Led by Reverend Sally Lodge, readers represented different churches across the Windsor community.

Each year, the event raises money for a chosen charity and this year it supported international-based Christian Aid.

And its also backing Number 22 Community Counselling Services, which provides support for young people and adults in Windsor, Maidenhead and Slough.

The organisation provides free, confidential support for young people and adults in Windsor, Maidenhead and Slough.

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First introduced in 1949, when a Christmas tree was erected and lit up near Queen Victoria’s statue, the annual Carols On The Hill celebration has seen the hundreds gather to enjoy an evening of festive cheer.

And Windsor and Eton’s Rotary Club gathered and distributed hundreds of gifts for children across many hospitals.

Susy Shearer, volunteer event co-ordinator, said: "Churches Together in Windsor are immensely grateful for the town that this wonderful and especially meaningful evening has been able to take place again at a time when all local, wider and international communities continue to face many exceptional challenges.

“We're indebted to all the organisations, agencies and individual volunteers which, without their generous and willing support, this service could not have taken place.”

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Mrs Shearer went on to thank everyone who attended and for their generous donations.

She added: “These are things which help make Carols On The Hill such a truly worthwhile celebration of Christmas hope."

An announcement of the final amount raised from the charity collection will be made later this month.