Choirs urged to enter singing contest
The search to find Lancashire's top choral singing talent has launched for the third year running.
Lancashire Choir of the Year aims to encourage a wide range of choirs from communities, workplaces and schools to come together to showcase their love of singing.
Open to people from Lancashire, Blackpool and Blackburn with Darwen, the popular contest sees singing groups record their best performance on video, in a bid to reach the finals.
Budding baritones and soaring sopranos of all abilities are welcome to take part.
County council leader Phillippa Williamson, together with a panel of top singing professionals, will judge the videos and pick the winners.
These will go through to a live final in November to coincide with celebrations around Lancashire Day on November 27.
On the night, the panel will announce the overall winner, as well as runner up prizes and a 'People's Choice' award.
Last year's winners Pendle Ladies' Choir, were awarded a professional recording sessions after giving a lilting, cheerful performance of 'The Nightingale' , as well as the more melancholic 'The Snow'.
Caroline Greaves, from the choir, said: "Being selected as a finalist felt like an achievement. The actual final was a wonderful event and to be awarded first prize was a real honour.
"The award captured local attention. Everywhere we go, people are commenting on our win."
County Councillor Peter Buckley said: "We are so excited to be opening nominations for this year's enthralling competition, which brings to the forefront some of the best singing talent that we have here in Lancashire.
"Choirs bring together different ages and abilities for fun, companionship and a real community feeling and that is something that we love to celebrate.
"If you have previously entered or never had a go before, we welcome entries, as the experience itself is fantastic for making music and building confidence alike. I encourage all choirs to enter now."
For more information about the competition, including terms and conditions, and to see previous finalists' performances, visit www.lancashire.gov.uk/choiroftheyear
Notes to editors
Notes to editors:
Entries close at noon on Tuesday, July 16.
Since winning LCOTY, Nelson Civic Ladies Choir have changed their name to Pendle Ladies Choir.