Sussex singer, Chris Simmons, performed his latest song along with some favourite Christmas hits for residents at Haviland House, Guild Care’s dedicated care home for people living with dementia. Chris, who comes from Worthing, sang hits including Wham’s Last Christmas along with some well-loved carols, inviting the audience to sing along. The hit session was rounded off with his new single, ‘A Cold December’ which is in the running to be No.1 across the country this Christmas.
Chris wrote the ‘A Cold December’ in August and has just released the track in aid of bereavement charity, At A Loss. His songwriting and live performances have earned him a loyal following over the years. However, alongside this growing success, his journey has been marked by a series of personal tragedies.
'A Cold December' captures the bittersweet side of the festive season. It reflects on coming home for Christmas, the comfort of living in the present moment, and the treasured memories of loved ones no longer here with us.
Manager of Haviland House, Avallon McCormack introduced Chris to residents who received a warm welcome from residents who clapped, sang, and danced along to the music.
Avallon said, “It’s incredible how music evokes something in everyone. It reaches people differently but always with an emotional connection. We were delighted to welcome Chris to Haviland House and it was clear to see from the reaction that our residents enjoyed the special performance as the Christmas season gets into full flow with a whole series of events here.”
The performance took place in The Ashdown Room at Haviland House, a dedicated space for events and activities ranging from indoor gardening to music and movement. The room was decorated with no less than three Christmas trees as well as a winter wonderland backdrop and sparkling fairy lights.
Chris led a group rendition of ‘Silent Night’ accompanied by his guitar, followed by ‘Away in a Manger’ and ‘A Cold December’ before being asked to perform an encore of his song, ‘Navigators’, to an appreciative audience.
In the past, he has supported such famous performers as Sir Tom Jones, Paloma Faith, Simply Red, and Suzanne Vega, and has performed at Glastonbury and the Isle of Wight Festival. As for the future, he’s hoping for a Christmas No.1 this year with ‘A Cold December’ (iamchrissimmons.com).
Haviland House is hosting a Christmas Market and Grotto on the 14th and 15th December where everyone’s welcome to come along between 11am and 4pm to join the festive fun. For more information, visit Haviland House Christmas Market | Festive Fun in Worthing or contact Guild Care’s customer relationship team on 01903 327 327.