A County Durham Civic Choir turns 60 years old this year and in celebration, its members are preparing to commemorate the milestone with a special performance.

The Chester-le-Street Civic Choir was first founded in 1964, by William Henderson at the request of the late councillor, Dorothy Riddell, who was the chairwoman of Chester-le-Street District Council.

Now the civic choir has an eclectic repertoire, which encompasses musical theatre, as well as classical, sacred and popular music, that has developed over its 60 years of singing.  

The choir will be hosting its Diamond Jubilee concert this month, which will take place on Saturday, April 20, at St Mary and St Cuthbert Parish Church Centre, in Chester-le-Street, at 3pm.

The Northern Echo: Its members are preparing to commemorate the milestone with a special performance

Chairman Alan Balmer said: “That the choir is still going strong 60 years after it was formed is certainly something to celebrate and we are looking forward to performing some of our favourite pieces of music at the anniversary concert. We hope the range of music being performed will provide something for everyone to enjoy.

“We are a thriving community group of people from all walks of life, who love to sing. Anyone who shares this passion and would like to join us can be assured they’ll receive a warm welcome.”

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The 50-strong mixed-voice choir rehearses every week at Chester-le-Street C of E School in Pelaw, on Tuesday evenings between 7.30 and 9.30pm.

The Diamond Jubilee concert will take place on Saturday, April 20, at St Mary and St Cuthbert Parish Church Centre, Church Chare, Chester-le-Street, at 3pm.

Tickets to the free event are available on 07747 032664, or from any choir member, and entry to the concert is by ticket only. Refreshments will be available after the performance.