The Army Carol Service was due to take place on Tuesday 14th December at The Royal Hospital, Chelsea. A message for those planning to attend is as follows.
As you will all appreciate, the UK’s COVID alert level has been raised to its second highest following a rapid increase in cases of the Omicron variant, with the country’s four chief medical officers warning that people are already being treated in hospital due to Omicron and that the number of patients is “likely to increase rapidly”. The Prime Minister has just announced that Omicron now represents about 40% of coronavirus cases in London, stating the figure will be over 50% by tomorrow.
It is with a great deal of regret that under the present circumstances, and having considered the various options, it has been decided that the most sensible approach is to cancel this year’s Army Carol Service and Reception. We apologise for the short notice; we know you will appreciate that this is a dynamic and rapidly evolving situation.
Although a number of people have said they would not now be attending, it is appreciated that this will be a deep disappointment to many others. Under the circumstances, though, we are confident that we are doing the right thing for the health, wellbeing and safety of everyone involved in this event, in particular for those who are vulnerable.
All ticket purchases can be refunded: please email [email protected] so that we can reimburse you. Any ticket purchases not refunded will automatically be reallocated as donations to ABF The Soldiers’ Charity.
The cancellation of the Army Carol Service is just the latest financial impact Covid has had on our charity. We want to assure you that whatever obstacles the pandemic throws in our way, we remain as determined as ever to support the Army family when it is in need. But to do that, we need our supporters help. If you are able to make a donation towards our work this Christmas, you can do so on our website and we would be incredibly grateful for your support.
Finally, we want to wish you and your families a safe and Merry Christmas.