Christmas Carols 2025 – St Johns Church and the Union Jack Club - Monday 8th December 2025

This year, the Royal Marines Association City of London Branch gathered in strength to enjoy the Union Jack Club's annual Christmas Carol Concert, held at the beautiful St John's Church in Waterloo. With the usual warmth and generosity of the Union Jack Club's hospitality, the evening brought together over 40 members of the branch for a festive and meaningful celebration.

To align with the concert, the branch made the decision to move its regular monthly meeting from Thursday to Monday—a small logistical shift that paid dividends in terms of turnout and festive cheer.

The concert itself was a stand-out event. With candlelight setting a reflective tone during several key moments, and the talented Military Wives Choir providing a moving musical performance, the atmosphere was warm, spirited, and unmistakably festive—even if the weather wasn’t. At an unseasonably mild 15 degrees, there was more chance of sweating through a woolly jumper than needing one. Still, the mood stayed rightly focused on the season.

A series of heartfelt readings punctuated the carols, delivered with care and clarity, while the collective singing of familiar tunes brought smiles (and the occasional off-key note) from all corners of the church. It was a true reminder of the power of shared traditions and the bonds that continue to tie our community together.

Back at the Club, the Union Jack Club put on excellent mince pies and mulled wine, alongside great conversation with other members of the club. Afterwards, the branch headed into the Reserve Bar for its December branch meeting and the ever-popular Christmas Raffle.

This year's draw was one of the most generous yet, raising vital funds for the branch’s Yompers Fund—which supports our annual trip to Zeebrugge and other welfare activities throughout the year. With a table full of prizes and the usual healthy competition among attendees, the raffle added a brilliant note of good-natured fun to the night.

As we wrap up another year, the branch would like to thank all those who came out, supported, and sang their hearts out. Events like these remind us of the strength of the Royal Marines family and the importance of keeping our community connected, active, and supported.

Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas from everyone at the Royal Marines Association City of London Branch. We look forward to an eventful and hoofing 2026.

Tom Frearson

Membership Secretary

RMA CoL

11th December 2025

Photos courtesy of Les Lockwood and Tony Luckins.

For upcoming events, including branch meetings on the second Thursday of each month, please check out our events page on our website.