LOYAL supporters of the Stroud Light Music Choir must be wondering why they have not yet been approached to buy tickets for 'Iolanthe' on March 24 and 25, as advertised.

The fact is that these concert performances will no longer be taking place.

We knew that our MD was leaving to spend more time with her other choir, but believed that this would be her last endeavour with us.

When we last met in February, in what was to be our new venue, the choir and audience seating was arranged and, with all the soloists present, everything seemed to be going well.

But apparently it was not, and the show was abandoned.

This was a blow for those of us older members who had been with the choir for forty years or more.

But, help was at hand.

One of the soloists, who had successfully taken previous rehearsals, stepped forward.

His name, Mr Joe Patel, a minister with the Mormon Church in Nelson Street, who was not only willing to take our rehearsals, but could provide his church for rehearsals and performances.

Several of the choir have left, to retire or to concentrate on other choirs, but a good number turned up on March 16 and were delighted by their surroundings, a church of modest proportions with excellent parking, kitchen and toilet facilities.

The room was warm, and that feeling of warmth prevailed as Joe put us through our paces, warming up and working on two show songs, accompanied by an excellent pianist.

It will be a smaller choir, but some of his friends joined us and he has promised to bring some more.

Now is your chance to come along and sing, for fun.

You do not have to 'read' music and there will be no auditions.

If you want more information, I am usually at home on 01453 757779.