The Princess of Wales's annual Christmas carol service at Westminster Abbey was a star-studded affair on Friday, with the royal family joined by celebrities and community heroes. Among the guests, Mike Tindall proved his charm is universal, sharing a hearty laugh with actress and singer Hannah Waddingham.
A Festive Royal Gathering
The former rugby star, 47, attended the 'Together at Christmas' service with his wife, Zara Tindall, 44. This marked Zara's fifth consecutive year at the event since its inception in 2021. The couple were in high spirits, with Mike particularly enjoying a jovial moment with Ted Lasso star Hannah Waddingham, who had to pull out of performing at the last minute due to vocal issues.
Zara, the daughter of Princess Anne, made a chic style statement in a sleek black coat, breaking from the traditional festive reds and greens she has worn in previous years. Last year, she attended the service without Mike, opting for a burgundy velvet ensemble while walking with her cousin, Princess Beatrice.
Celebrating Community and Connection
The service, hosted by the Princess of Wales, brought together 1,600 guests to honour the power of community and 'love in all its forms'. It recognised individuals from across the UK who have dedicated time to volunteering, leading community initiatives, or offering support to others.
In a letter to guests, Kate praised these 'community stalwarts', stating: "The time, care and compassion you give, often quietly and unspoken, and without any expectation or recognition, make an extraordinary difference to the lives of others." She emphasised that Christmas reminds us 'how deeply our lives are woven together'.
Notable attendees from the world of entertainment and sport included:
- Kate Winslet and Chiwetel Ejiofor, who delivered readings.
- Celebrity chef Dame Mary Berry.
- Members of the England women's rugby World Cup winning squad.
- Holocaust survivor Steven Frank.
- Second World War veterans Jack Mortimer and John Eskdale.
Family Festivities Ahead
The Tindall family, including children Mia, Lena, and Lucas, will once again celebrate Christmas with the wider royal family at Sandringham. Speaking exclusively to the Daily Mail at the Beauty Awards on November 25, Zara expressed her excitement: "We are so lucky, Christmas is always amazing. We get to do a lot of fun things, and the place looks amazing. We will see everyone."
The carol service, which also featured performances by Katie Melua and Griff, will be broadcast on ITV1 and ITVX on Christmas Eve and again on Christmas Day. It is part of a wider series of 15 community carol services taking place across the UK, from Armagh to Worcestershire, all centred on the theme of love and togetherness.
