Residents across Walsall are warmly invited to attend the borough’s annual civic carol service, hosted by the Mayor of Walsall, on Sunday 14 December 2025 at St Matthew’s Church.
Image by Phil Buckley
The service will begin at 10.45am, with guests asked to arrive by 10.30am at St. Matthew’s Close, Church Hill, Walsall WS1 3DG.
The Mayor of Walsall, Councillor Louise Harrison, 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.
I’m especially excited to hear songs from Blue Coat Schools’ children who I’m sure have been putting in a lot of practice.”
Entertainment during the service will be provided by pupils from Blue Coat Schools. Following the carol service, the Mayor will take part in the traditional ‘Buns and Shilling’ presentation at the Town Hall, with the event expected to conclude at 1pm.
The ‘Buns and Shilling’ ceremony is a longstanding Walsall tradition dating back to 1553. Historically, the Mayor would invite children from Blue Coat Schools into his parlour to receive a shilling, followed by afternoon tea. The tradition is symbolic, with the bun representing help given to families, and the shilling reflecting support for children’s education.
Parking will be available at St Matthew’s Church and at Blue Coat Academy on Birmingham Street, although the academy car park closes at 1pm. Pay-and-display parking is also available on Tantarra Street, a short walk from the church.
The civic carol service offers residents an opportunity to come together at the start of the festive season and take part in one of Walsall’s cherished traditions.