The Royal Family’s Christmas Day in Sandingham could end up in chaos after choristers at the local church had walked out of rehearsals over a “modernisation” row with the church’s rector. Rev Canon Paul Williams, who has been the Rector of St Mary Magdalene in Sandringham for three years and is also the Domestic Chaplain to the King, has fallen out with the musical director of the church choir, Dr Claire Stewart, over the future direction of the choir.
The clash between the two men emerged after Rev Williams’s desire to modernise the choir. His proposals, opposed by Dr Stewart, included creating a social media account for their performances.
Tensions reached a boiling point to the extent that even King Charles was reportedly asked to intervene. The claims were never confirmed by Buckingham Palace.
His proposals – including the creation of a social media account for their performances – were accompanied by a contentious report into the choir, which stated members had “no knowledge of music or singing technique.”
Dr Stewart, who hit back with a 28-page grievance report against the “modernising” proposals, has reportedly now left her position as director of music for the choir.
Rev Williams sent a letter, which was seen by LBC, to members of the choir and acknowledged “the mixed emotions” her departure was likely to cause.
But the latest news has sparked uproar within the local community, with an increasingly smaller number of members attending the choir rehearsals, thus raising concerns over whether there will be any left for the major Christmas Day church service, which is attended by most members of the Royal Family.
According to LBC, the recent rehearsals were poorly attended, with one instance seeing them cancelled after only three children turned up.
A source said: “Everyone’s deeply upset. I’m distressed, angry and disappointed — especially as this should be such a special time of year with Advent and Christmas just around the corner.
“The choir performs within touching distance of the Royals — they’re a big part of the Christmas service they so enjoy.
“After the services, the late Prince Philip would also pop his head around the door and thank the kids. It was really special for them all.”
Rev Williams has reportedly attempted to avert any crises on Christmas Day and in his letter, he issued an ultimatum to parents and guardians, stating that they must decide whether to keep their child in the choir by the end of today, November 7.
