Families of missing loved ones were joined by police officers, police staff, representatives from local authorities, charities and other organisations. 

Last night’s carol service at St Martin-in-the-Fields in central London was a fitting and poignant memorial to those who are missing at Christmas. The event was organised by the NPIA UK Missing Persons Bureau and the charity, Missing People.

The congregation of over 800 heard speeches and readings from a number of representatives, including NPIA chief executive, Nick Gargan, and Missing Persons Bureau manager, Joe Apps.

Nick Gargan told the congregation that over 900 people are reported missing every day.  He described how the government, statutory agencies, the NPIA Missing Persons Bureau, and the voluntary sector will work together as part of a new strategy to reduce the number of people who go missing, reduce the harm to those who go missing and provide more support and advice to missing persons and families.

Other speakers included Sarah Godwin, mother of missing male, Quentin Godwin, who disappeared in May 1992 from Titirangi in New Zealand and Martin Houghton-Brown, chief executive of Missing People. Sir Trevor McDonald OBE and Brenda Blethyn OBE also gave readings and the charity's Royal Patron, HRH The Duchess of Gloucester, GVCO, attended the event. Performances were also given by Rock Choir and the Choral Scholars of St Martin-in-the-fields.

Nick Gargan said: "The concert was, quite simply, a beautiful event. The performances of two very different choirs were the highlight, from my perspective. The event brought together families of the missing, supporters of the charity and practitioners in a very special atmosphere of reflection and hope."

Joe Apps said: "Christmas will always be a difficult time of year for families who are missing loved ones. Our carol service brought together families supporters, charities, police and partners to remember those missing at Christmas. During the service the light of hope passed through the church for all to share - a poignant moment to take time to remember those who are missing."

Additional Resources

•Photo of Brenda Blethyn OBE, Kate and Gerry McCann (parents of missing Madeleine McCann) and Trevor McDonald OBE at the service.