A charity Christmas concert returns this year to raise funds for two good causes.

The City Charity Christmas Carol Concert takes place on Tuesday, December 9, in aid of the Martlets Hospice and The Argus Appeal.

Once again, it rings out from All Saints Church in The Drive, Hove.

It will feature choirs and musicians including the All Saints Choir, Hurstpierpoint College, Brighton Chamber Choir and Sussex Flutes.

All the music on the night will be directed by Andrew Wilson.

Among the familiar faces will be author Peter James, known for his crime novels and being a supporter of The Argus Appeal, and Steve Barry, the assistant chief constable of Sussex Police.

Mr James will introduce the festive proceedings while Mr Barry, inset, will carry out the readings throughout the concert.

Elsa Gillio, co-ordinator of The Argus Appeal, said: “This concert is crucial to the fundraising efforts of both charities every year.

“Both charities rely on the goodwill of people attending the concert, which enables them to continue the good work they do in the community.”

The Argus Appeal, the charity of The Argus, gives every penny it raises towards helping those in real need.

Its beneficiaries range from the elderly and vulnerable to those less fortunate than most.

The Martlets Hospice helps families cope with the challenging demands of terminal illness, caring for people in the local community.

For the financial year 2014/15, it has to generate more than £4.8 million to ensure the continuation of hospice services.

It was thanks to Derek Hunnisett that the event was first brought to the church 11 years ago, and although Derek passed away in 2011, his wife Eleanor 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.” This year’s service starts at 7pm and tickets are priced at £10 and £5.

Tickets are available from The Martlets Hospice in Wayfield Avenue, Hove, The Martlets Hospice shops in Brighton, Hove, Lewes, Peacehaven, Woodingdean and Rottingdean and from The Argus in Crowhurst Road, Hollingbury.

For more information, call 01273 964200.