Over 200 voices joined an orchestra and choir led by music director Craig Hudson to raise the rafters at St John’s Church, Tunbridge Wells, on 26 November.
The event marked the forthcoming 90th birthday of hymn writer Bishop Timothy Dudley-Smith (on Boxing Day). Copies of his carol book, Beneath a Travelling Star, arrived, hot off the press from the RSCM (www.rscmshop.com). The collection’s music editor, William Llewellyn, and contributors, Bishop Michael Baughen and Noel Tredinnick, were introduced. Pam Rhodes of BBC Songs of Praise interviewed Bishop Timothy with characteristic charm. Prebendary Dick Lucas spoke from Luke 1, pointing to the coming of Jesus Christ as Saviour. Timothy paid tribute to his late wife, Arlette, and their family for their constant encouragement and support.
Wonderful solos
Sons-in-law the Revd Giles Walter and Professor David Gill led the proceedings and read from Psalm 96 respectively. Helen Hayward and Becky Dudley-Smith, Timothy’s daughter-in-law, sang wonderful solos. Timothy and Arlette’s adult children, Caroline, Sarah and James, introduced three carols. Grandchildren Jonny and Suzie read a carol apiece, and the younger grandchildren, Harry and Joseph, sang in the congregation. Afterwards, St John’s Church hosted a sumptuous birthday tea for everyone.
