A CHOIR that has delighted audiences for 40 years desperately needs a new pianist to accompany singers at concerts and rehearsals.

Sedgefield Lyric Singers was formed in 1974 and is a four-part choir with members of all ages from Sedgefield and surrounding towns and villages.

The group has been without a piano player since the last accompanist stood down following the summer concert and members are now searching for another musician to take on the role.

Avril Hannon, choir secretary, said: “We are a very friendly bunch. I have only been a member for five years and I received such a warm welcome when I joined.

“We are a choir of mixed ages, from late teens to people in their eighties.”

The choir rehearses from 7.30pm to 9pm on Friday evenings from September until June at Ceddesfeld Hall, and members sing everything from show tunes and folk songs, to sacred and classical music.

They are keen to start rehearsing for their Christmas concert and a performance to celebrate the tenth anniversary of the Sage in Gateshead next March.

Pianists can contact Ms Hannon on 01740-622512 or avrilhannon@btinternet.com