Members of a Cornish choir gave an emotional final performance at a church in Cornwall which is due to close in August - now just weeks away.
Mabe Ladies Choir were joined by Treverva Male Voice Choir in a joint final concert at Penryn Methodist Church on June 10. However, it was an emotional event for Mabe Ladies who have rehearsed at the chapel for more than 50 years.
It was announced in 2022 that the building of the chapel will close by the end of summer 2023, due to its financial situation becoming unstainable.
Reverend Andrew Mumford, of Penryn Methodist Church, previously told the Packet that the decision to close had been confirmed. He said: “Although it is sad that the building will be completed and sold, it’s a positive future for the congregation.
“Plans are in place to find bigger premises for a new Methodist church to be built, to combine both Penryn and Falmouth congregations.
“Penryn Methodist congregation is planning on doing something special on our last day in the church, although nothing has been decided yet.”
The final performance welcomed the Mayor of Penryn Julie Tucker and many friends and families from the town and surrounding areas.
The evening’s MC, Jenny Lockwood told the audience some humorous tales and information about the pieces being performed.
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Mabe Ladies, under the musical direction of Liz Chivers and accompaniment of Rico Gerber, opened the concert with a selection of religious pieces, ending with the upbeat ‘Hail Holy Queen’ from Sister Act.
Treverva, under the musical direction of Robert Norman and accompaniment of Ruth Best, followed with a varied selection including ‘Divine Brahma’, ‘Angels’ by Robbie Williams and ‘The American Trilogy.’
Treverva concluded the concert with four pieces, ending with the rousing "One Moment in Time" by Whitney Houston. The evening ended with everyone singing the hymn "The Day Thou Gavest."
Revd. Andrew Mumford gave a vote of thanks and ended with a prayer.
A retiring collection saw £700 raised for a Parkinson's charity.
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