TENNIS ace Tim Henman is among guests who will be reading at a festive night of carols in Basingstoke tonight.

St Michael’s Hospice is this year teaming up with the trailblazing research charity, Pelican Cancer Foundation, for Carols by Candlelight at the historic St Michael’s Church from 7pm.

All are welcome at the free event which hopes to raise money by voluntary donations.

The Friends of St Michael’s Hospice Committee, who run the event every two years, decided to link up with the Pelican Cancer Foundation, which, like them, is based in the grounds of Basingstoke hospital.

Committee chairman Joy MacAndrew said: “We decided this year we would work with another charity, and, as we work in the same field, we decided to invite them.”

The Reverend Canon Roger Royle will give an address, with readings by Hampshire Lord Lieutenant Dame Mary Fagan, Pelican Cancer Foundation surgical director Professor Bill Heald, Mr Henman, Sir Bernard Ribeiro and Andrew Soundy.

Mrs MacAndrew said: “This is a nice Christmas event where people can focus on the end of the year.”