“We are not seen as a wealthy part of the Country, but here in North Cornwall our generosity and care for those in dire straits would be hard to beat”.

Graham Tucker, Launceston Male Voice Choir chairman expressed these feelings during the opening remarks.

On Wednesday night (March 1) the choir hosted an impromptu event in concert with the Bel Canto Ladies Ensemble, in Launceston Central Methodist Church.

Entry was free and the audience of well over 100 was invited to ‘give what you can’ in support of the recent terrible earthquake disasters, in Turkey and Syria.

With donations still being made, the evening itself raised well over £1,500 that will be sent to the Disasters Emergency Committee to be used immediately.

This response is exceptional and all involved are truly grateful, both for the support and generosity.

Despite the serious theme it was a most enjoyable and entertaining evening.

Bel Canto, under the direction of their founder Shelley Coulter- Smith , and accompanied by Rob Strike performed a wide range of items both on their own and at the conclusion joined the Choir in the ever evocative ‘Morte Christe’.

The choir, some 35 strong now sang items ranging from Lloyd Webber to Jolson.

All conducted by Jonathan Mann (musical director) and accompanied by Lis Mann. At the conclusion Jonathan played an exciting and dramatic piece on the organ.

It was a very emotional and exciting evening for all, with thoughts of the terrible suffering that has ensued, and the feeling was expressed by some leaving that whilst we cannot help, at least we are able to give what we can.

Both choirs would like to thank all those who attended, and for the audience to know that the enthusiastic response to the musical items was really appreciated.