AN initiative to provide a Cowling church with its own, regularly performing choir for the first time in 40 years is about to demonstrate its success.

The recently formed choir at Holy Trinity Church will stage its first public performance at the 10.45am Holy Communion Service on Trinity Sunday – May 22.

The 17-strong choir, made up of adults from all walks of life, has already been rehearsing. From now on it will be singing at the church's 10.45am service on the fourth Sunday of each month.

The idea to set the choir up came from organist James Ashworth, former director of music at Malsis School, and was made possible by a donation from an anonymous donor.

Mr Ashworth said: “I was inspired to become a professional musician through being involved in church music from a young age.

"I hope that this choir will prove an inspiration to others.”

He added that he is interested in hearing from tenor and bass singers with good reading skills, who would be able to attend two rehearsals per month.

People interested should call 07971 007116 to contact him.