Headingley was full of festive cheer as Members and the community came together to celebrate Christmas at the home of Yorkshire Cricket on Sunday, December 3.
To celebrate, Yorkshire hosted a special Christmas Carol event in the Long Room at Headingley Stadium, which capped off the second year where Yorkshire Cricket has held a calendar of events to celebrate the county’s diverse cultures and communities.
Those attending, including the Bishop of Kirkstall, the Rt Revd Arun Arora, were welcomed by Club Chaplain, Bishop Chris Edmondson, and Chair Harry Chathli, a Q & A with the President Dr Jane Powell, award-winning Bradford-based BD1 Brass Band, who played Christmas music, and accompanying Christmas Carols.
Members and supporters were treated to mulled wine and mince pies on a crisp Headingley afternoon, with further refreshments available.
On the afternoon there the opportunity was given for people to make donations to the Streetlight Trust Charity, which for over 30 years has given support to the most vulnerable street children in the Philippines.
Bishop Chris Edmondson, The Yorkshire County Cricket Club Chaplain, said: “As Club Chaplain, I’m delighted that we’ve been able to host this special Christmas event for the second time, because along with Easter, Christmas is one or the two great Christian celebrations in the year.
“I also count it a privilege to have been part of the Eid Milan and Diwali celebrations the Club hosted earlier in the year and I look forward later this month to being part of the inaugural Hanukkah at Headingley.
“We’re all very aware that it’s a tough and anxious time for many in our nation and world at the moment.
“This includes of course, all those affected by the war currently taking place in the very part of the world where Christ was born.
“My hope is that this occasion we shared, especially through Christmas music, the story of Jesus Christ’s coming as the light of the world, will bring us all some fresh hope, joy and peace.”
Harry Chathli, the Chair of Yorkshire CCC, said: “We’re delighted to welcome so many people from across communities within Yorkshire to celebrate our second Christmas celebration event.
“The Yorkshire Cricket Family is pleased to be able to connect people from different backgrounds across the region.
“The Yorkshire Cricket Family has had the opportunity to attend annual events including celebrating Eid, Diwali and Christmas – it’s great to connect and celebrate the diverse community that we represent.
“We are committed to continuing the celebration of all events that are of significance to our communities.
“We look forward to many other celebrations of this nature.”