Queen hails Songs Of Praise on 50th anniversary

The Queen (PA)

The Queen has offered her congratulations to long-running BBC1 series Songs Of Praise as the 50th anniversary edition is filmed today.

She said the programme's longevity was a "remarkable achievement" and called it "a traditional and much-loved part of our Sundays".

The birthday edition of the programme is being recorded at London's Alexandra Palace and is due to feature LeAnn Rimes, tenor Andrea Bocelli and Katherine Jenkins.

The Queen has written her message to recognise the milestone in a printed programme given to the audience for the concert, which will be broadcast on October 2 at 5.30pm.

In it she says: "I congratulate all those involved in bringing Songs of Praise into our homes over the past 50 years during which it has delivered hope, comfort and joy to many millions of viewers and become a traditional and much-loved part of our Sundays.

"In a changing world, the programme's enduring appeal has been its mixture of inspirational music and uplifting human stories, which bring together congregations from far and wide to share timeless hymns and the experiences of fellow Christians whose faith is at the centre of their lives."

Around 7,000 voices will ring out at the building which was one of the birthplaces of TV broadcasting.

Hymns such as Guide Me O Thou Great Redeemer, Angel-Voices Ever Singing and Jerusalem will be performed.

The Queen's message concludes: "For Songs of Praise to celebrate 50 years without a break is a remarkable achievement and reflects the central role which Christian faith and worship continue to play in the life of communities and the nation.

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"I very much hope that this evening's concert will be a great occasion and wish the programme well in the years to come."

PA