AFTER performances in the Square on the afternoon of the Christmas light switch-on and in the Holy Cross Church during the Tree Festival, it was the beautiful and ancient setting of Stockleigh Pomeroy Church with its 16th century carved oak bench ends and its 17th century oak pulpit that saw the culmination of the Crediton Singers’ autumn term in a Christmas concert by candlelight.

Ably accompanied by Nigel Guthrie on piano, they sang a range of carols and winter songs, reflecting, not only the Christmas story, but also the natural world and winter solstice. And what Christmas concert would be complete without a rendition of “Walking Through the Air”?!

Choir member, Steve Turner, on the accordion with his fellow band member, Helena Torpy on the violin, played some delightful original tunes inspired by European folk traditions; the choir’s musical director, Philip Lancaster, sang pieces by Peter Cornelius, Gerald Finzi and Hubert Parry; and there were amusing and thought provoking readings by Philip Lancaster and Alison Orchard.

The event was organised by choir member and villager, Liz Bonass-Clark, and she came up trumps with the refreshments - delicious mince pies donated by choir members and villagers and mulled wine donated by Morrisons and a local resident - which made for a warm and convivial end to a lovely afternoon much enjoyed by all.

The choir have a long history of raising money for charity and were thrilled to donate £100 to the MND Association following their Town Square performance and that an additional £254 was raised at Stockleigh Pomeroy in aid of church funds.

The Crediton Singers meet at the Elephant on the Green on Monday evenings from 7pm. They enjoy a mid practice break with cake and tea.

Their new term starts on January 5 and, as a community choir with no audition needed, anyone and everyone is welcome to join. For more details, contact Philip Lancaster: [email protected]