A VILLAGE choir formed five years ago after an announcement in the parish magazine has gone from strength to strength.

Singalong Shaldon is a group of ‘light hearted’ folk who sing for fun once a fortnight. The group also occasionally performs at outside events, including the recent blessing of the boats ceremony at the Teignmouth harbour festival, and audiences are invited to join in and sing along.

It all began when Pauline Constantine put a piece in the parish magazine, suggesting people might like to get together and sing. The first evening was well attended, and numbers have remained buoyant ever since, with plenty of regulars, and new faces. both men and women.

They sing a variety of songs, of all styles and eras, under the direction of local musician Kate Hill-Art who also plays the piano, and makes practices fun.

‘There are no auditions and no need to read music; the evenings are informal with the emphasis on enjoyment,’ said choir administrator Leigh Lamming..

‘At Christmas we organise carol-singing around the tree on Shaldon village green outside the London Inn. We are joined by children from Shaldon School and members of the local community; it makes a great start to the festive season.

‘We also sing at the Shaldon Christmas markets.

‘When we sang at the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Street Party in 2012 the public really got into the swing – singing along and dancing in the street.

‘Occasionally we hold social evenings, and themed events, for example, Songs from the Shows, which always prove popular. We are always happy to welcome new members.’

Anyone interested in joining in can go to Shaldon School Hall from 7pm on the second or fourth Tuesday of the month, or ring Leigh Lamming on 01626 871278, or Kate Hill-Art on 01626 871238, for more information.’