The charity concert given by Ross Choristers in support of SSAFA (Soldiers, Sailors, & Air Force Association) exceeded all expectations by raising £1300.

The concert at Christchurch was a sell-out event with extra seating having to be brought in to accommodate the capacity audience. As on previous similar events the programme was varied with a mix of choral singing and solo performances, all underlining the concert’s theme of support for those in need, particularly in SSAFA’s case those members of our armed forces (and their families) who find themselves disabled and otherwise vulnerable upon their return from conflict. The concert was graced by the presence of the Mayor of Ross, Councillor Harry Bramer and Mayor’s Consort Marie together with Mr Pat Burbage, Divisional Secretary for SSAFA in South Herefordshire. The capacity audience joined in community singing, and interval refreshments were also provided. In addition to delightful solos from Mr John Childerly (I’ll walk beside you), Pat Williams (As long as he needs me) and the choir’s conductor Josie O’Driscoll (‘Cavatina’ from the film The Deer Hunter) one of the evening’s highlights was a harp recital by Jane Osbaldiston playing ‘Evening of Roses’.See this week’s paper for more stories like this, available in shops and as a Digital Edition now.