The Sage at Gateshead was not the only organisation holding a Carol Service on 16th December. Staff and Students at the College were joined by the children of St Aidan's School Choir to celebrate the Christian festival of Christmas.

To an audience of over 200, readings and prayers were lead by Staff and Student Ambassadors. The renditions of the traditional carols were joyous thanks to the lead provided by St Aidan's School. Even Scrooge would have been tempted to join in. Carols included : 'In the Bleak Mid Winter', 'While Shepherds Watched', 'O' Come all ye Faithful' and 'Hark the Herald'.

An address from Peter Hart (Youth Worker, Stranton Church) reminded us of the true meaning of Christmas. God came down to us in the form of man to bring light to the world. To illustrate the point, the whole gathering was plunged into darkness and invited to light up a glow stick, making the message easy to understand.

To entertain, St Aidan's School give a modern twist to some Carols and Favourite Christmas classics. The uptempo version 'Whilst Shepherds Watched' sang to the tune of 'Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious' raised the spirits, ready for a communal rendition of 'Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer' complete with the actions.

The service concluded with drinks and mince pies and visit from Santa Claus. So Happy Christmas from the Governors, Staff and Students of Hartlepool College of Further Education.