A WELL established Barnoldswick singing institution is re-forming under a new identity.

"It's the old Barnoldswick Gilbert and Sullivan Society , said founder member Phyllis Hartley, who is appealing for new people to join a new choir for its first meeting next week (Feb 4).

"Barnoldswick Musical Society is our new name to signify our change in direction," said member Maria Jones, who lives in Barnoldswick. "We want to attract new members and we'll be performing some new material that will appeal to younger people."

"Anybody who wishes to join us would be more than welcome," added Phyllis. "We just want people to enjoy singing."

Phyllis, of Barnoldswick, was one of the original members of the Barnoldswick Gilbert and Sullivan Society when it was formed 43 years ago, and served the group as president for the last 30 years.

"When we started, people were queueing up to join us," said Phyllis, who admitted membership had been dwindling in recent years.

The group's numbers had fallen to just under 20, with less than of quarter of those being male members.

"Fourteen have said they will come back and sing in the new choir," she said. "We're changing our music, and we'll be doing all sorts of different kinds of shows to try and get more members."

The former Barnoldswick Gilbert and Sullivan Society put on two concerts per year, one in May and a pre-Christmas show, both of which ran over three nights.

"We're launching a bit of a campaign because this is a good thing to keep going in Barnoldswick," added Maria. "It's not a huge commitment."

The new Barnoldswick Musical Society will meet in Barnoldswick Civic Hall at 7.30pm every Wednesday, starting on February 4.

All ages and voices are welcome, and no experience is required.

For further details, ring 01282 815724 or 01282 814543, or email singbarnoldswick@gmail.com