Hundreds of festive folk enjoyed an annual charity Chrismas carol concert.

The City Charity Christ- mas Carol Concert was held at All Saints Church in The Drive, Hove, in aid of The Argus Appeal and The Martlets Hospice.

Actor Brian Capron and BBC Newsreader Nicholas Owen introduced a whole host of singing stars including soprano sensation Donna-Marie Hughes.

David Goldin, chairman of the concert committee, said: “I am overwhelmed with the response we have received so far from last night’s concert.

“I cannot thank everyone enough – those who worked so hard to make it happen and those who rewarded that effort by buying tickets, supporting the programme or giving their time or merchandise.

“Every penny raised will go to benefiting two of the city’s charities, The Argus Appeal and The Martlets Hospice, Hove. Thank you.”

Also on show were All Saints Choir directed by Andrew Wilson, Brighton and Hove High School for Girls Senior Choir, The Hangleton Band and The Choir of St Christopher’s Hove.

Elsa Gillio, co-ordinator for The Argus Appeal, which supports the event, said: “Each year we like to introduce new dimensions to the concert programme and squeeze in one or two surprises – our talented musicians and directors never fail to deliver a first- class concert.

“The choirs are always magnificent and you could hear nothing else but beautiful voices all evening.

“There is nothing nicer - particularly at Christmas.

“We are enormously grateful to everyone who supported it.”

All the classics were belted out including O Little Town Of Bethlehem, Hark The Herald Angels Sing, Silent Night and The First Noel.

It was thanks to Derek Hunnisett OBE that the event was first brought to the church 11 years ago, and although Derek passed away in 2011, his wife Ellen is still involved in the event.

She said: “My husband always regarded the Carol Concert as the beginning of the Christmas season and we looked forward to it very much every year.

“It truly is a wonderful occasion and we appreciate and congratulate all the organisers, contributors, choirs and speakers who help make it such a memorable evening.”