A POPULAR lunchtime choir is looking for new members when it restarts this week.

The Friday Lunchtime Singers will resume rehearsals this Friday, September 24, after a summer break.

Conductor and trainer Maggie Richardson, who is head of music service for the Department of Education and Children, is encouraging new singers to come along.

She said: "Everyone is welcome to come and sing no matter how confident or experienced they are.

"We don't take ourselves too seriously but we do work on improving vocal skills in a friendly and non-threatening setting.

"People often say they look forward to choir all week and go back to work with a smile on their faces."

The choir has been operating for a year and meets every Friday during term time, from 1.15pm to 1.45pm, at the Salvation Army Citadel on Lord Street in Douglas.

Maggie continued: "We sing many styles of music from gospel, pop and folk arrangements and spirituals, to more serious pieces.

"I always choose music I think the singers will enjoy and that will give them a sense of satisfaction once it is mastered. Sometimes the music might be a little challenging but it's never impossible."

Anyone interested in joining the choir is asked to e-mail musicaladmin@doe.sch.im or call the Music Centre on 01624 686555. Alternatively just turn up on the day.

There is a small charge of 20p per person per week to cover the cost of the hall.