It's easy to forget that carols are to be sung all the year round and the OXFORD BOOK OF CAROLS has an extremely good selection for this time of year

A particular favourite of mine is THE FLOWER CAROL .. sixteenth century (NUMBER 99) which had it's words rewritten and became Good King Wenslas ....... the original is so much nicer

Also from 16/17th century is Candlemas Eve by Herrick
Altogether 20 Carols are specifically designated for lent........ particularly number144 called WHITE LENT

Now quit your care
And anxious fear and worry
For schemes are vain
And fretting brings no gain
To prayer, To prayer
Bells call and clash and hurry
In Lent the bells do cry
Come buy , come buy
Come buy with love the love most high