The Abbeyfield Kent Society, a registered charity which cares for over 500 older people in Kent, has held a Christmas service and Lantern Parade for its residents at Aylesford Priory.

In celebration of Christmas, Abbeyfield Kent invited all of its residents to the Lantern Parade, which was held at The Friars Relic Chapel on Sunday 11^th December. The service consisted of readings of the Christmas story by Father David Fox and the singing of Christmas carols.

The Society has recently established a community partnership with Canterbury’s Parkside Community Primary School, and to celebrate the school choir came along to sign to the congregation. Lead by Choir Master Tracy Castle, the choir sang Away In A Manger, Silent Night, and Jingle Bells.

Residents from each of the Society's residential homes from around Kent were in attendance. During the service, guest readings were carried out by Maggie Town, Spirit of Abbeyfield Ambassador, and Connie, a pupil from Parkside Community Primary School.

The Friars is an ancient religious house of the Order of Carmelites, dating back to the 13^th Century, and its picturesquesetting offered the perfect background for a festive occasion. After the service, the whole congregation gathered lanterns and formed a procession outside the Relic Chapel, around the grounds at The Friars.

Abbeyfield Kent is one of the largest providers of residential care, extra care and housingwith support in the South East of England, looking after over 500 older people at 16 locations throughout Kent. As a registered charity, all the profits the organisation makes go towards providing residents with a higher standard ofliving.

Leon Steer, Abbeyfield Kent Chief Executive commented: “Aylesford Priory is a wonderful venue for a Christmas event, and it provides a very special backdrop for our Lantern Parade. It is very important for the Society that our residents areable to enjoy a special Christmas service, and we do all we can to ensure they afforded every opportunity. This year's Lantern Parade really was special, everyone at the Society is already looking forward to next year.”