“ The Mayor of Walsall, Councillor Louise Harrison for Walsall Council, said, “I’m pleased to be attending the civic carol service at St. Matthew’s Church, and would like to extend my invite to residents across the borough to join in the festivities."
Councillor Louise Harrison, the Mayor of Walsall
I’m especially excited to hear songs from Blue Coat Schools’ children who I’m sure have been putting in a lot of practice. “
During the service, entertainment will be provided by pupils from Blue Coat Schools and, after the service, the Mayor will take part in the ‘Buns and Shilling’ presentation at the Town Hall. The event is due to end at 1pm.
The ‘buns and shilling’ ceremony is an age-old Walsall tradition which began in 1553. The Mayor of Walsall would invite children from Blue Coat Schools to attend his parlour where they would receive a shilling followed by an afternoon tea. It is symbolic: the bun being the help given to the family and the shilling of the help given to the children with their education.
Those who wish to attend are encouraged to arrive at St. Matthew’s Church, St. Matthew’s Close, Church Hill, Walsall WS1 3DG, no later than 10.30am on Sunday 14 December.
Parking will be available at the church or at Blue Coat Academy on Birmingham Street. Please note the academy car park closes at 1pm. Pay and display parking is also available on Tantarra Street, which is a short walking distance.
