Panto star Jake Wood may not be able to attend but he has been helping the Mayor of St Albans prepare for the traditional Christmas carol concert in the city centre this Sunday, December 13.

It is being held from 4pm beside the War Memorial at the top of St Peter’s Street and the Mayor, Cllr Salih Gaygusuz, his Mayoress Maureen and Deputy Mayor, Cllr Gill Clark.

Jake, who plays Max Branning in BBC soap EastEnders, took a break from rehearsals for the Arena pantomime Peter Pan to help the Mayor get ready for the concert.

He is unable to attend the carol concert as he will be taking part in the Sunday matinee performance of the panto.

The Mayor will be joined by clergy from local churches including his chaplain, the Rev Em Coley. Music will be provided by St Albans City Band and St Peter’s Choir will join in the singing.

The concert will raise funds for Rennie Grove Hospice Care, one of the Mayor’s charities, and a collection for the charity will be held during the service.

People attending the service are invited to remember lost family and friends by lighting a small candle during the concert. They can also write the names of their loved ones on colourful wristbands and place them on the railings surrounding the St Albans Christmas Peace Tree.

The wristbands are available for sale from the Blacksmiths Arms, the Cock and the nearby Rumball Sedgwick estate agents.

The Mayor said: “The themes for my mayoral year are love and peace which seem especially relevant this year. During the concert there will be the opportunity to light a candle in remembrance of someone dear to you. Everyone is welcome to join us and help raise funds for Rennie Grove Hospice Care.”

Mulled wine and mince pies will be offered by The Blacksmiths Arms.