A sad and fond farewell was given by all the Dukeries Singers’ past and present members to stalwart singer Jo Catling. Jo and her husband John were founder members of the choir way back in the 1970s and John Catling was the founder-conductor of the choir.
Chairman John Banbury presented Jo with a stunning bouquet of flowers in appreciation of her and John’s long-standing commitment and dedication to the choir, and paid tribute to John’s creativity and to Jo’s beautiful voice, her reliability and her sterling contribution to the wellbeing and popularity of the Dukeries Singers.
“It is with great sadness – but also with overwhelming gratitude – that we say goodbye to Jo who is relocating to be closer to her immediate family,” enthused John.
A trio from the Dukeries Singers recently journeyed to nearby Nottingham to join famous composer John Rutter in a fundraising concert in aid of refugees. Penny Woolley, John Banbury and Janet Otter represented the whole choir in taking part in this charity ‘Come and Sing’ event at the Theatre Royal.
The Dukeries Singers is keen to welcome new and additional singers and musicians to the male and female inclusive choir.
Membership costs just £2.50 per week and includes training and advice for those that want it. Non-members that want to see and hear the Singers practising are welcome to visit one or two of their regular practice sessions to discover if it all appeals to them.
Practice sessions take place every Wednesday at the Methodist Church Hall on Forest Road, New Ollerton at 7.00pm. Light refreshments are usually available.
Contact John Banbury with any queries by phone or text on 07759 086132.