KEEN local singers have received a £1,500 Councillor Community Grant to help to set up a new ladies choir.

Andover Ladies Choir has been awarded the grant by Test Valley Borough Council councillors Tony Hope, Phil Lashbrook and Pam Mutton for the launch of the new venture.

The initiative will establish an all-inclusive, three-part harmony choir for ladies of all ages, backgrounds and abilities from across the north of Test Valley.

Headed up by an experienced and qualified musical team, the group will rehearse in Thruxton and arrange regular public concerts and performances.

Claire Minting, chair and musical director, said: “I’d like to thank the councillors for their faith and support for the Andover Ladies Choir.

"More than 30 ladies have now joined the choir which demonstrates a need for this kind of choir locally.

"It will open up the joys of choral singing for many women who may have appreciated schemes such as the Military Wives choirs but who are not able to be part of these groups.”

The choir meets at Thruxton Village Hall on Wednesday evenings from 7.30pm and aims to perform its first concert next spring.

Councillors Phil Lashbrook and Pam Mutton said: “We are delighted to support this project which will provide a friendly and nurturing environment for women from all walks of life to meet and make choral music together. We look forward to seeing them perform.”

Councillor Tony Hope added: ‘In addition to the music, the group will provide opportunities for local people with common interests to form friendships and support across the villages, and provide pleasure to others in the community who hear them perform.’

The first rehearsal is free and anyone interested in joining the choir is invited to drop in to a rehearsal evening or visit their website at andoverladieschoir.co.uk