SONGSTERS from Hong Kong to Harrogate have signed up to take part in The Skipton Choir’s latest project in aid of a North Yorkshire charity.

It follows an appeal to singers around the community to join in with a virtual choir performance of a song specially composed by the choir’s musical director, David Weale and his sister Rebecca Luetchford.

The performance of We Will Sing Again, which will be launched online in August, aims to benefit Dementia Forward which supports people living with dementia and those who care for them.

It follows the release of a choir recording in May which raised over £3,000 for the Sue Ryder Manorlands hospice at Oxenhope.

Now, nearly 40 singing enthusiasts – including the Hong Kong based, 11-year-old grandson of choir chairman Carol Squire – have signed up to take part in the next virtual choir recording.

Others taking part come from Harrogate, Skipton, Ilkley, Lancashire and Cumbria and include a former backing vocalist in a rock band and a retired music teacher.

Said Carol, whose son Jamie and grandson Jasper plan to join in from their current home in Hong Kong: “We’ve been absolutely delighted at the response to our invitation for people across the community to join in with our next recording and have been surprised at just how far afield some of them have come from.

“Choir members have recruited husbands, mums, brothers, sons, daughters and friends. Several of those who have come forward also have a connection to Dementia Forward, either as a volunteer or as recipients of family support from them.

“My son Jamie has been a singer for a long time and is quite well known for various gigs that he has done in and around the Skipton area. Jasper has been singing and playing the guitar and piano since he was very young and has also sung at various gigs with his dad.”

All voices will be recorded individually and submitted to David for editing. He said: “Music is a lifeline for many people, particularly at the moment. And for those living with dementia, their music memories are often unaffected by the disease in the same way as other memories – singing can make a huge difference to their wellbeing.” To support the project, visit:giveasyoulive.com/fundraising/the-skipton-choir-community-performance