The Rotary Club’s annual Community Christmas Concert was held on Tuesday 13th December in the Leisure Centre featuring local schools performing a rich mix of entertainment which delighted an appreciative audience. The children were fantastic, singing confidently and enthusiastically, dressed suitably for the occasion and enjoying every moment. The schools taking part were Aycliffe Village, Vane Road, Woodham Academy, Byerley Park, Horndale, Greenfield College, Stephenson Way Academy and Woodham Burn. Sugar Hill School were unable to attend due to a last minute problem with staff availability. Local musician and choirmaster George Lee provided the accompaniment to carols sung by the audience and John Melvin was responsible for the sound system. One of the highlights was the guest appearance of Shanaya Atkinson a local singer who is through to a National Final in Birmingham. Her rendition of “Silent Night” was something very special and she amazed everyone by the sheer talent she possesses. Compere Syd Howarth wished Shanaya every success in the competition, hoping she brings home the first prize. Santa was in attendance dishing out lollies to the children as they sang “Rudolph”. At the end of the concert Rotary President Nora Scott and Deputy Mayor Michael Dalton gave Christmas greetings on behalf of the Rotary Club and the Town Council respectively. Rev. Mike Dixon, Deputy Chairman of Durham County Council concluded the event with a Christmas Blessing. On behalf of the Rotary Club Syd Howarth thanked the County Councillors for funding the hire of the hall, the schools for their continued support for this annual event and the audience for their attendance.
