Friar Alessandro sings at St James, Spanish Place

Jack Topping & Friar Alessandro

Friar Alessandro and some very distinguished guests - among them mezzo-soprano Katherine Jenkins, soprano Pumeza Matshikiza, actress Catherine Tate, classical guitarist Craig Ogden and angelic choirboy Jack Topping, performed on Tuesday night in charity evening for Great Ormond Street Hospital at St James' Church, Spanish Place, central London.

The evening was the brainchild of Hassan Choudhury, senior vice president of international marketing at Universal music. In a heartfelt introduction, Hassan said that he had spent many hours at the church while his son Louis was having surgery on his spine at the hospital round the corner. Later Louis, and another former GOSH child patient both gave readings. Chelsey, who undergone a number of operations said: "I'm one of Great Ormond Street's success stories and I love to support them."

Friar Alessandro began with Tu Send Dalle Stelle (From Starry Skies Descending) and later sang Silent Night and Adeste Fidelis from his new album Voice of Joy. He received rapturous applause, and responded with his characteristic gesture of thanks - arms outstretched to the audience, his fellow musicians and then to up to God.

The President of Decca Records, Dickon Stainer gave a small speech of thanks at the end, and there was a blessing from parish priest Fr Christopher Colven before eleven year old Jack Topping stepped to sing Once in Royal David's City.

Jack, who is a choirboy at Liverpool Metropolitan Cathedral, is the youngest ever person to be signed by Decca. His first album, Wonderful World is coming out this week, and his single Tomorrow, which is being released on 9 December could well be this year's Christmas Number One. After the concert Jack said he's had a very exciting day. Earlier that day he was singing in front of the Queen at the Royal Albert Hall and was just dashing off with his Mum to meet meet Prince Charles. "I love singing" he said. "I hope when I'm older I can get a career in music."

Friar Alessandro has also had a whirlwind year. Since 21 October, he's toured in the USA and Europe. His second album "Voice of Joy' is a collection of Christmas songs and carols, several of which, were recorded in Bethlehem "Visiting the Holy Land was an unforgettable experience" he said. The Friar will spend Christmas in Assisi with his community.

All funds from Tuesday's concert will go to help provide accommodation for families of chiildren being treated at Great Ormond Street Hospital. If you would like to make a donation see: www.justgiving.com/DeccaChristmasCarolConcert