CHESTER-le-Street Civic Choir is set to perform its first concert under the leadership of new musical director Philip Dixon.

The concert, titled From Pharaoh to Freedom will take place on Saturday (April 18) in the Parish Centre, Church Chare, Chester-le-Street, at 7pm.

In addition to From Pharaoh to Freedom by Roger Jones – a musical based on the Old Testament story of the Passover meal – the concert will feature other sacred music and songs with a spring theme.

Mr Dixon, of Birtley, has taken over from Katherine Ottossen who has retired after 30 years in the role.

An accomplished tenor, Mr Dixon sings with Felling Concert Choir and The Grainger Singers.

He also directs the Music Makers ladies choir based in Sunderland.

Mrs Ottossen is continuing with the choir as assistant musical director and as an alto singer.

Mr Dixon said: “Katherine is a hard act to follow, having done a tremendous job over three decades and I intend to continue her good work.

“I have a huge passion for music, in particular choral works and I’m looking forward to sharing that with the choir in the future.”

Tickets for the concert cost £5, including refreshments, and are available by calling 0191 3882943 or from choir members.