More about US
Many of our concerts help with fundraising for local and national charities or for a specific project. In recent years we have supported local churches, and helped to raise money for ‘Water for Kalamba’, Mary's Meals, children with Batten Disease and the local MS Society. We are happy to sing at weddings and funerals; many of the congregation have said how uplifting it is to hear singing at these occasions.
We pride ourselves on being a welcoming and friendly group, which not only sings together but has a lot of fun along the way. We are always keen to hear from potential new members – it helps if you can read music, but it is not necessary. More important is enthusiasm, the ability to follow a tune, and a willingness to practise at home.
We would also like to reach out to aspiring young musicians who would be interested in performing with us at our concerts.
Concerts
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We had a wonderful year of singing in 2024!
Our first event, in March, was a concert in Birchley for St Helens Ramblers. Right from the start there was a buzz in the air. The highlight has to be the rock 'n' roll medley, and it was fabulous to see the audience joining in with singing and dance moves!
In May we were honoured to be asked to participate in a tribute to Enid Pennington, who worked so tirelessly to support the Theatre Royal. Sadly, Enid did not live to see this tribute, but all who were there agreed that it was a fitting way to celebrate her life.
The following month we performed at St Thomas' Church in Eccleston. The audience members are like friends to us and always make us so welcome. Over £500 was raised for church funds - a magnificent amount!
At the beginning of July we took part in a new event for us - providing entertainment at Crank Gala. We did start off 'Singing in the rain'; however, the clouds parted, the sun came out and we had a lovely afternoon. Maybe our Calypso medley had some influence! Thank you to Crank and Kings Moss Community for inviting us to sing and for joining in - we thoroughly enjoyed it!
In October we returned to Birchley for 'Thank you for the Music' which featured a tribute to ABBA in the second half. What a fabulous evening - a combination of foot-tapping music, imaginative costumes and so much enthusiasm! We are already planning for next year!
Our Christmas programme featured Carols at Crank Nursery; the 'Tree of Remembrance' service in December organised by the Friends of St Helens Cemetery; and a Christmas concert at St Julie's in Eccleston, which raised over £1400 for parish funds. In addition we had two private engagements. Do contact us if you are planning an event or fundraiser and we will be happy to discuss it with you.
Social events
Just before our summer break in July 2024, we returned to Houghwood Golf Club for an evening in honour of Wilf Fildes, who celebrates 60 years of singing with us this year. Wilf played many solo parts during our Gilbert & Sullivan days, and is still singing solo in our concerts. His dry wit has provided much entertainment over the years. During the evening, Wilf's son Anthony (one of the 'Lancashire Hot Pots') sang 'The Pirate King' as a tribute to his dad. Wilf, John Appleton, Vint Brennan and Tony Moran (our very own 'Take This') have accumulated over 200 years of singing between them. Congratulations to them all and thank you for your magnificent support!
Rehearsals - Monday evenings 7.30pm - 9.30pm, St Julie's Church Hall,
Howards Lane, Eccleston, St Helens WA10 5HJ
All are welcome to join us.