Wembley hits the high notes

The sell out Carnegie Challenge Cup Final at Wembley between Leeds Rhinos and Warrington Wolves on Saturday will feature a lot more than 80 minutes of thrilling Rugby League action.

Before the match kicks off and at half-time, there’s a wealth of entertainment on show with one of the UK’s leading classical artists in Camilla Kerslake hitting the perfect note by leading the singing for the traditional Challenge Cup hymn, ‘Abide with Me’.

Camilla, who will also sing the national anthem, has already performed to Royalty at Buckingham Palace, graced the Royal Albert Hall on three occasions and sung prior to the Carling Cup Final so she’s no stranger to the Wembley pitch.

The pre-match entertainment gets underway at 12.35pm when Dowdales School from Barrow take on Temple Moor of Leeds in the Carnegie Champion Schools Year 7 Final.

At 1.50pm there is the traditional parade of legends featuring players from one of the most memorable finals ever when Hull FC took on Wigan in 1985.

There’s a treat in store at 1.55pm when The Band of the Blues and Royals link up with classical all male ensemble ‘Only Men Aloud’ for what promises to be a stunning joint performance.  Fifteen minutes before kick-off, at 2.15pm, the giant Carnegie Challenge Cup flag will be unveiled prior to Camilla singing the traditional pre-match anthems.

Only Men Aloud will return at half-time to entertain what is expected to be a complete sell out crowd.