A CHOIR whose members are drawn from across the region converged on Keighley to record its second album – a collection of Christmas songs.

Voices of Yorkshire used the town's Victoria Hall for the recording session, following a mass rehearsal at the venue.

The album features seasonal songs arranged by Voices of Yorkshire founder Nick Ingram, plus a children's choir singing Sparkle and Shine from the film Nativity!, and Christmas readings and poems by young people.

Nick said he was delighted to once again work with producer Andy Thornton, following the success of last year's debut album, From T’Top.

That featured eight songs – including Human, originally by the Killers; From Now On, from The Greatest Showman, and What’s Up, originally by 4 Non Blondes – and was also recorded in Keighley, at Jam on Top studios.

Proceeds from sales were donated to the locally-based mental health organisation, It's Worth Talking About.

Nick says: "Andy worked tirelessly on From T'Top to help us achieve something really special and we can’t wait to see what he is able to do with our Christmas album!

"Our choir members spent the summer months learning Christmas songs and we’re really proud of the hard work they put in.

"They rehearsed in local parks, people's gardens and even in pubs! They’ve shown real dedication to this wonderful project."

Sales of the latest album will support Dementia UK, the choir's chosen charity for this year.

Nick adds: "We are proud to support such a worthwhile cause.

"Many of our choir members have been directly impacted by dementia, so it is a charity that's close to all of our hearts. You can hear this shine through in the singing."

The album will be available to download via all major streaming platforms from early November, and the choir is planning to have a celebratory launch party.

Voices of Yorkshire is actually made up of six choirs from across the area.

Sessions are held weekly at Bingley, Menston, Oakworth, Pudsey, Silsden and Skipton.

Performances are given at events across Yorkshire.

Anyone is welcome to join. Previous experience isn't needed and there are no auditions.

"Lots of our members join Voices of Yorkshire as strangers and make lifelong friends at our sessions, performances and social events," says Nick. "Making positive connections whilst having fun singing is what it’s all about!"

For further information and details of upcoming shows, visit voicesofyorkshire.com.