A MALE voice choir based in North Cornwall has raised more than £1,000 for charity thanks to some festive performances.

In January, Launceston Male Voice Choir presented a cheque to Children’s Hospice South West worth £1,500 after raising money at two concerts held back in December.

The group, which was formed in 1969, is now more than 50 years young and has a membership of between 40 and 50, and has a repertoire of almost 100 pieces covering both modern and traditional styles.

Based within the town’s Central Methodists Church, the group perform around 20 concerts a year, mainly in West Devon and East Cornwall, as well as going away on an annual tour to other parts of the country.

One set of performances has become a staple in the calendars of many locals, the group’s Christmas concerts. However, the events are more than a festive celebration, the occasions also serve as an opportunity to raise funds for a good cause.

This year, across two performances, the choir raised money for Children’s Hospice South West, a charity which cares for children with illnesses across the region. On top of these performances, members and their families also donated money in lieu of sending Christmas cards.

A spokesperson explained: “Children’s Hospice South West was the chosen charity due to the wonderful work that they do for local children and their families. Some choir members have previously visited the hospice at Little Harbour St Austell and were overwhelmed by the facilities that they provide and motivated that the hospice heavily relies on donations to keep it going!”

Ann-Marie and Chrissie from the Border Belles, a Launceston-based friends group for which helps fundraise for Children’s Hospice South West, met with the choir to receive the cheque donation.