A RUSSIAN day centre for children with Down's syndrome will benefit from a Christmas concert.

The Harp Singers will perform a carols by candlelight event at the Bolton Arms, in Leyburn, on Wednesday, December 21.

The singers, dressed in Victorian costume and carrying candles, will perform a programme of Christmas music and readings, conducted by Roger Ohr.

Harp chairman Ray Marriott said: "This year's event is in aid of Downside Up, a charity started by an English couple, which runs a day centre in Moscow for more than 600 children with Down's syndrome.

"The couple heard that in Russia, Down's syndrome babies were put away in institutions and 50 per cent died before their first birthday."

Tickets cost £6,and include two glasses of wine and mince pies. They are available from the Bolton Arms, or by calling (01969) 663738.

The choir will also sing on Sunday, December 11, from noon at the Crown, in Askrigg, from 1pm at Hawes Creamery and from 2.30pm at High Hall home for the elderly, in Bainbridge.

On Saturday, December 17, the choir will perform at Brentwood old people's home, in Leyburn, from 2pm and at the Co-op, in Leyburn, from 3pm.

On Christmas Eve, the singers will perform at the Wensleydale Railway station, Leeming Bar, from 10.30am to 12.30pm.