Respected soprano Elin Manahan Thomas, 29, will sing at the sell-out extravaganza in the Royal International Pavilion later this month.

It comes after classical singer Shan Cothi had to withdraw for personal reasons.

Two sponsors have also signed up to support the event, on Sunday December 16, investing £2,500 each in the event.

As part of their sponsorship agreement, chair manufacturers Pine Direct, of Ruthin has pledged to donate £50 to the Hope House hospice, for every Stressless recliner ordered.

Family bakers Warburtons, are supporting the carol concert for the third year in a row.

Runcorn depot manager James Yates said: “Thousands of Christmas Voices is not only a truly inspiring occasion, it’s raising important funds for families in real need at a special time of year.”

Last night Ms Thomas, who has just signed a six-record deal with Universal – which already has singers Bryn Terfel, Aled Jones and Katherine Jenkins on its books – said: “It gives me great pride to be following in the esteemed footsteps of so many great Welsh singers who have appeared at this concert.”

Bryn Terfel was among last year’s line-up.

Ms Thomas, of Gorseinon near Swansea, added: “I love Christmas and I love singing carols. So I’m looking forward to a fabulous evening in the company of many like-minded people, on stage and in the audience.

“Let’s all make it a thunderous occasion and raise lots of money for Hope House hospices.”

Her CD Eternal Light rocketed to No. 2 in the classical chart, and she will sing Nadolig Pwy a Wyr plus several classical pieces in Llangollen.

Other performers will be Rhys Meirion, Ryland Teifi, Einion Dafydd, Gwynedd and Môn Youth Jazz Band, Russian soloist Jana Dyakova, Islwyn Evans and 2007 Côr Cymru winners Cywair.

Two school choirs are Ysgol Pen Barras and Ysgol Glanaethwy.

The event, backed by the Daily Post and S4C, is in aid of Ty Gobaith and Hope House, caring for sick children in Conwy Valley and Oswestry.

Source: Daily Post (Wales)