In pictures: The magic of Luminaria at St Catharine’s College, Cambridge

Music and light created a festive atmosphere as St Catharine’s College held its popular Luminaria event.

About 400 people watched from the main court at the University of Cambridge college – thought to be the biggest crowd yet for the occasion.

Twenty choristers from the girls’ choir at St Catharine’s sang at the festive occasion. Age from just 10 to 15, the choristers attend schools across Cambridge and beyond.

Dr Edward Wickham, fellow and director of music at St Catharine’s, said: “Our Luminaria event has sold out for three years in a row, a sign that its magical blend of singing and firelight is enjoyed by many in Cambridge.

“I am proud that the St Catharine’s community is so open and welcoming of this opportunity to celebrate the run up to Christmas with our neighbours. I was delighted with how superbly our girls’ choir performed and I am grateful to the Rev Jonathan Collis – our acting chaplain until January – for helping me to lead the event, to the City of Cambridge Brass Band for their renditions of Christmas carols, and to the event's sponsor, Mills & Reeve.”

The occasion raised £450 for The Cambridge Acorn Project, which supports local children and families affected by trauma, abuse and financial hardship.

Nick Finlayson-Brown, head of Mills & Reeve’s Cambridge office, said: “We were delighted to be able to sponsor Luminaria and the carol concert that followed for the third year in a row.

“The choir sang beautifully, and it was a privilege to listen to it under Dr Edward Wickham’s baton setting the tone for Advent and Christmas.

“In addition, we were able to generate a large donation towards our annual charity, The Cambridge Acorn Project, and to give Francis Burkitt the opportunity to explain the importance and funding requirements of the new Cambridge Cancer Research Hospital at Addenbrooke’s.

“Doing what we can to support such a vibrant community is very much at the heart of our DNA.”