A GROUP of east Durham singers is hoping to strike the right chord when it begins a fundraising venture with a difference.

Members of five operatic societies are tuning up to mark the Millennium and boost funds for the NSPCC, Cancer Research and the Royal British Legion.

The charity concert, entitled A Century of Song includes members from Murton Amateur Operatic Society, Murton Youth, Seaham Amateur Operatic and Drama Society, Vane Tempest Amateur Operatic Society and Seaham and District Youth Theatre Group.

And to make sure the evening goes with a swing, East Durham Operatic Group has been given a £1,200 grant from the Awards for All Commission to stage the event.

TV personality and agony aunt Denise Robertson, who is involved in several of the societies presented the cheque to East Durham.

A Century of Song is held on Monday, November 27, at East Durham College, Peterlee and at Vane Tempest Social Welfare Centre, Seaham on Tuesday, November 28 and Wednesday, November 29.

All performances start at 7.15pm and tickets are available by telephoning Derek on 0191-581 2938