The rafters were ringing at St John’s Church, Ben Rhydding on Tuesday 3rd December when the Singing for Pleasure Group (SfP) presented their “Countdown to Christmas” concert. Playing to packed pews the choir, under the leadership of Brian Mason, gave a varied selection of carols old and new and several other pieces they had been rehearsing during the year. Music ranged from the medieval to the modern by way of madrigal through motet to folk, jazz and show songs.

We were joined by members of the Transpennine Harp Group, who played the enchanting “Irene’s Waltz” and accompanied us for two further pieces, including “Silent Night” sung in German and Brian’s solo rendition of an Elizabethan carol which promised ‘to keep the cold winter away’ with feasting and wassailing. Hot drinks and mince pies warmed the audience as they arrived and the church was filled almost to capacity by an appreciative crowd who joined us in three congregational carols. Thanks to everyone involved, especially accompanist Ruth Johnson and the kitchen team for the welcome refreshments. There will be a second chance to hear some of the repertoire at the U3A Christmas showcase at the Clarke Foley Centre on 14^th December.