A CHOIR based in Kingsteignton recently celebrated its 40th anniversary with two charity concerts.

In celebration of its 40th anniversary, Choir 86 held two concerts in aid of Kerswella Care, a voluntary, patient support group based at Kingskerswell Health Centre.

Accompanied by renowned organist Wyn Turner and keyboard player Jean Baldey, the choir performed first at St. Joseph's Church in Newton Abbot on March 26, before heading to Kingskerswell Parish Church on Saturday, March 28.

The Mayor and Mayoress of Newton Abbot, Councillor Colin Parker and wife Jean, attended the former concert.

Councillor Mike Joyce was also among the audience at the first concert.

‘We were to be treated to the Choir singing Howard Goodall, Eternal Light, A Requiem and “The Lord is my Shepherd”’, Cllr Joyce said.

‘The programme opened with “The Lord is my Shepherd” by soloist Liz Walker, accompanied by the Choir and for those who have seen Vicar of Dibley, this will have been very familiar.

‘The next was Wyn Turner- Organ Solo rendition of the Trumpet Voluntary by Henry Purcell

‘We were then treated to the Choir and soloist taken us through the Eternal Light.

‘What a variety and what a performance, the whole of St Joseph’s Church was filled with music and vocals’, Cllr Joyce added.

Cllr Joyce went on to say: ‘None of these performances just happen, weeks and weeks of practice, a considerable amount of behind-the-scenes work, ensuring everything is in order and prepared exactly as it is wished.

‘To all those, unseen and seen contributors, a thank you from all of us who benefit from your work and without you, we would not benefit from the wonderful Choir 86’.