MORMONS from Keighley and Silsden took part in a major concert to mark the famous Christmas truce during the First World War.

They were among members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who performed in Leeds this month.

The cast was led by James Stewart, the Keighley-based leader of the Mormon congregations in the Keighley, Leeds and Bradford areas.

Churchgoers from all three areas combined to perform the concert, with the support of musicians from across Yorkshire.

Several hundred people went along to watch the show, which received its second performance last Friday (December 12) in York.

Annette Stewart, a leading member of the congregation at Keighley’s Mormon church in Cross Roads, described Sunday’s premiere of the production as “remarkable”.

She said: “This year marks 100 years since both German and British soldiers spontaneously put down their arms and celebrated Christmas together.

“The soldiers crossed No Man’s Land and declared a ceasefire. After burying their fallen, carols were sung and gifts were exchanged.

“On that day, brotherhood was stronger than bullets as a historic game of football turned enemies into equals.”

The touching production took people back to the events of 1914 by using original soldiers’ letters, specially-produced video clips and choral and instrumental music.

Mr Stewart, who oversaw the production, described the evening as “truly wonderful”.

He said: “It was an inspirational retelling of the events witnessed on the battlefields 100 years ago.

“These events show how the spirit of Christmas, which is the spirit of Christ, can bring peace to this world, even in our darkest hours.”

Among the official guests were Bradford community campaigner Dr Bary Abdul Malik MBE and his wife, and Dr Fiona Macaulay, professor at the Peace Studies department at Bradford University.

Dr Macaulay said it had been a privilege to witness the concert.

She said: “There was beautiful music, moving readings, and a meticulously planned and wonderfully executed evening.”

Dr Malik added: “It was a truly fitting tribute to our heroes who gave their lives for us and for our country.”

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints has more than 15 million members worldwide and 3,000 across the Keighley, Leeds and Bradford areas.

Members follow Christ-centred teachings, focusing on families and humanitarian and charitable efforts. The Church has a strong musical tradition.