Julian Fellowes and John Le Carre added some celebrity sparkle as readers at the annual Julia’s House Carols by Candlelight concert last Wednesday.

Ticket-holders were also joined for the second year running by AFC Bournemouth manager and Julia’s House Patron Eddie Howe, who once again popped up as a surprise guest.

They enjoyed a festive mix of music, carols and readings followed by mince pies and mulled wine in a packed Wimborne Minster, all in aid of the Dorset and Wiltshire children’s hospice charity.

John Le Carre said: “I love the Minster, I love the company and I love the cause. I wanted to come last year but couldn’t so I am delighted to be here.”

The sell-out concert, which raised more than £14,000, proved so popular it had a waiting list. There are plans to have two Dorset dates next year.

The Wimborne event was hot on the heels of the Julia’s House Carols by Candlelight in Devizes, home to the charity’s Wiltshire children’s hospice which opened in May.

Guests there heard readings by author Penny Junor and actress Stephanie Cole - plus some rather startling surprise guests – a pair of camels who were led into the service by their owner Lady Chichester.