Last week, the Army Benevolent Fund (ABF) hosted the annual Army Carol Service in the historic Wren Chapel at the Royal Hospital Chelsea. This traditional service of lessons and carols is a highlight of the Army’s and the ABF’s Christmas season, bringing together soldiers, veterans, and supporters to mark the end of another eventful year.
The Chief of the General Staff, General Sir Roly Walker, joined soldiers representing the breadth of today’s Army in reading the lessons. Readers included personnel from across the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth, reflecting the diversity of ranks and backgrounds that make up the modern Army. Among them were Guardsman Ella-Louise Asbrey, one of the first women to join the Grenadier Guards, Warrant Officer Class 2 Natasha Campbell AGC, born in Kingston, Jamaica, and Staff Sergeant Ashlee Richardson AGC, who has served in Iraq, Afghanistan and Estonia.
Guests arriving at the Chapel were welcomed by stirring music from Piper Ryan Smart of the Scots Guards, with stair-lining parties from the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery and the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment. The opening carol was sung by candlelight, accompanied by a Fanfare Team from the Band of the Scots Guards and the Royal Hospital Chelsea Choir, creating an atmospheric setting steeped in tradition.
The service was led by The Reverend Canon Michael Parker, Chaplain General of His Majesty’s Land Forces, and The Reverend Steven Brookes, Chaplain of the Royal Hospital Chelsea. Following the service, guests joined Chelsea Pensioners in their distinctive scarlet coats for mince pies in the Great Hall, a chance for serving personnel to connect with veterans and supporters of the Army family.
This year’s service also provided a moment to reflect on the Army’s global commitments in 2025. Thousands of troops are deployed overseas on 21 operations in 27 countries, while many more remain at readiness over the festive season to defend the nation or assist in humanitarian missions. From training allied forces and supporting NATO and UN missions, to responding to natural disasters and protecting ecosystems, soldiers have demonstrated versatility and dedication throughout the year.
The Army Benevolent Fund is honoured to host this annual celebration, which not only marks the Christmas season but also raises awareness of our work supporting soldiers, former soldiers and their families.