Headingley was full of festive cheer on Friday night as Members and supporters came together to celebrate Christmas at the home of Yorkshire Cricket.
The special Christmas Carol event in the Howard Stand at Headingley Stadium capped off a year where Yorkshire Cricket has held a calendar of events to celebrate the county’s diverse cultures and communities.
Those attending on the evening were welcomed by Club Chaplain Chris Edmondson and Chief Executive Stephen Vaughan, with Rob Halligan and his accompanying band playing live music for the event. Yorkshire all-rounder and Young Player of the Year George Hill was in attendance to provide a bible reading on behalf of the playing squad.
Members and supporters were treated to mulled wine and mince pies on a cold Headingley evening. Further refreshments were kindly supplied by MyLahore and Regal Food Group. Donations were gratefully accepted on the night for Global Care’s Christmas Appeal.
Bishop Chris Edmondson, The Yorkshire County Cricket Club Chaplain said: “As Club Chaplain, I’m really excited that we’re able to have this very special Christmas celebration in the stadium, having enjoyed being part of the Eid Milan and Diwali celebrations the Club has hosted earlier in the year.
“It’s a tough and anxious time for many in our nation and world at the moment, so my hope and prayer is that as we celebrate again the timeless story of Jesus coming into a dark and troubled world, it will bring us all some fresh light, hope and joy this Christmas.”
Yaseen Mohammed, The Yorkshire County Cricket Club Non-Executive Director said: “On behalf of the Board and the Club, we are absolutely delighted to support Chris on the Christmas celebrations.
“Without question, we hope this becomes an annual fixture and allows us to see our Members and supporters at a special time of the year. These celebrations will also finish off a busy year where we have celebrated Eid, Diwali and also held fundraising events to support the humanitarian efforts in Pakistan following the floods.
“We are looking forward to a busy 2023.”