On Friday 19 December 2025, the Worshipful Company of Security Professionals gathered for its annual Service of Lessons and Carols at the Chapel Royal of St Peter ad Vincula within HM Tower of London. Set within one of London’s most atmospheric historic spaces, the evening offered members and guests a welcome opportunity to come together at the close of the year and enjoy the music, tradition, and warmth of the festive season.

The evening opened in time-honoured fashion with a solo verse of Once in Royal David’s City, immediately setting a calm and reflective tone. Music played a central role throughout the service, with the Choir, directed by Colm Carey BMus, Master of Music, leading a rich programme of seasonal works. Choral highlights included This is the Truth Sent from Above, Tomorrow Shall Be My Dancing Day, Seeing the Star, and Star Carol, alongside congregational favourites such as We Three Kings, O Little Town of Bethlehem, O Come All Ye Faithful, and Hark the Herald Angels Sing.

Readings were delivered by members of the Company representing a broad range of roles and experience. These were read by Mr Hugo Khan, Apprentice; Mrs Adrienne Harper, Clerk; Miss Antonia Marie Sheppard, Freeman; Mr Frederick Carter, Liveryman & Court Assistant; and Mr Simon Imbert, Liveryman & Court Assistant, who kindly stepped in on the night due to illness. The final reading was delivered by The Revd Canon Roger Hall LVO MBE, Chaplain of the Chapel Royal.

A seasonal reading of Christmas Bells by Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, delivered by the Master, Susan Jones, provided a thoughtful moment of reflection and a pause amid the music.

The evening concluded with a final carol and blessing, bringing proceedings to a warm and celebratory close. The Master and Wardens expressed their thanks to the Constable of the Tower, General Sir Gordon Messenger KCB DSO & Bar OBE ADC, the Governor of the Tower, Brigadier Andrew Jackson CBE, and to the Chapel Royal for once again hosting the Company in such an exceptional setting.

As ever, the Carol Service proved to be a highlight of the Company’s calendar, bringing together members, families, and guests for an evening defined by music, fellowship, and the shared enjoyment of the festive season within one of the country’s most historic settings.