ROSS Penyard Singers are marking its 25th anniversary by performing a celebratory concert, ‘You Raise me up’, writes Shanya Jacobs.

The choir was originally formed in October 2000 and members are now taking the opportunity to commemorate the occasion.

Throughout its 25 years, the choir has had a varying array of musical directors. The choir’s first ever musical director was the late Tony Washington, who handed the baton to John Firth and subsequently to Peter Johnson and Pippa Wright.

Sammy Martin, the current musical director said: “I am delighted to announce that three former musical directors are able to join us for the concert.

“The choir will sing compositions written by John Frith - Love Makes the World Go Round and On Malvern Hill by Liz Dilnot-Johnson, who is the wife of Peter Johnson. Meanwhile Pippa Wright will be singing with the choir, and it will be a wonderful evening of celebration.”

The Ross Penyard Singers will be joined by the newly formed junior Ross Academy Choir, a group of young singers aged nine to 18 creating variation of individuals throughout all different ages.

Sammy Martin added: “The children in the Ross Academy Choir who have been a joy to work with, are really looking forward to performing for the first time with the adult choir. They have worked hard this term, and we look forward to seeing more young people join them in the future.”

The event will take place at St Mary’s Church on Saturday, June 14, at 7pm and will provide a night full of celebration.

The music will include ‘Every Purpose Under the Heaven’ Howard Goodhall’s Oratorio, ‘In Memoriam’ by Anne Frank and Christina Rossetti, and ‘Upon Your Heart' by Eleanor Daley.

The anniversary concert’s programme should appeal to all with adult tickets being priced at £12 while children’s entry is free.