A VILLAGE choir that has welcomed singers for more than 50 years will host its final farewell concert this weekend after dwindling numbers forced it to disband.

The Gainford Singers, which were originally established as the Gainford Choral Society, in 1956, have been struggling to attract members for months despite their best efforts.

Despite once having 50 members the choir now only has 14, with only two men, which means they are unable to continue to sing the four part choral and other music they enjoy.

The group are determined to go out on a high and will be holding their final Christmas concert, entitled Noel, in St. Mary’s Church, on Sunday.

Acting chairman and longest-standing member, Don Eccles, said a lack of male voices was the reason the choir are having to call it a day, but that members had fond memories of their time.

“The choir was formed as an off-shoot from the Gainford Drama Group but apart fromEnid Burton, everyone from the original choir is dead,” he said.

“We are very disappointed and we have tried hard to get the members, men and women, but it did not do any good,” he added.

“It’s been an absolutely wonderful experience though. We have travelled all over the world.”

The choir, which changed its name about eight years ago, has performed throughout the region and has even been invited to sing with groups in countries such as Germany, France and America.

Mr Eccles said members had even travelled to places like Russia to sing because they had formed such close friendships within the group.

Talking about Sunday’s concert, Mr Eccles said: “We are certainly looking forward to it and being able to thank our supporters for it.”

The concert will include Christmas music and carols as well as some old favourite to encourage the audience to get involved.

The concert will start at 7.30pm in St Mary's Church, Gainford.

Admission is £6 and includes mulled wine and mince pies.