A COVENTRY couple had a right royal festive day out as they were invited to attend The Princess of Wales’s Together at Christmas carol service at Westminster Abbey.
Foster carers Rianne and Danny Parrot, along with three children who have been in their care, were nominated by the West Midlands Lieutenancy to recognise their outstanding support to young people.
They were taken by chauffeur-driven car to London and then to the Abbey for the service, which was attended by Prince William and Princess Catherine, along with Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis.
As well as the service, Rianne and Danny were treated to a tour of London, including the Christmas lights, and a visit to Harrods.
Those invited to the service included midwives, health visitors, nursery teachers and community volunteers who have gone above and beyond to help others, as well as children and families who have faced a challenging year.
Rianne and Danny have been foster carers working with Coventry City Council’s Children’s Services since 2015, and have supported more than ten children.
Earlier this year, Rianne was featured on the Channel 4 documentary Kids, which looked into foster care in Coventry.
She said: “The carol service was beautiful – and absolutely amazing.
“The choirs’ singing was wonderful; it was all very Christmassy whilst the Abbey is a beautiful building. Everyone was so helpful and kind.”
Rianne added the couple saw the Royal Family being escorted to their seats and was later just a short distance from the Princess of Wales as she spoke to members of the congregation.
She added: “It was lovely to be in her presence. The Princess was lovely – very down to earth and really keen to speak to young people in particular.”
The service took place on Friday, December, 8 and will be aired on ITV1 and ITVX at 7.45pm on Christmas Eve.
