A MALTON men’s choir is marking its 10th birthday this year and encouraging newcomers to join the group.

Founded in 2007, Malton District Male Voice Choir currently includes about 20 members aged 20 to 94.

Musical director Vivien Wilcock said: "While we would like to remain small, we would still like a few more members to add depth to our four-part repertoire and keep us resilient to change.

"Now is the perfect time for new members to join as the choir tunes up for 2017 concerts and its 10th anniversary."

The Malton choir was recently selected from scores of others in the region to audition for the Best in Britain choir series in Newcastle and later sing for Gareth Malone in Malton. Although the choir did not go through to later heats, the BBC production team told the choir it had “personality” and had made a big impression.

Malton choir chairman and founder Tom Todd said Gareth has described the group as singing “with guts and Yorkshire spirit and really makes me feel energised".

"We are a small, compact choir and we would like to stay that way. Being small works for us," he said.

"That and our individuality has earned praise not only from Gareth Malone but across the region from Helmsley to Bridlington. It attracts a wide range of local groups at concerts and weddings in small venues like churches and village halls.

"We are a choir for men of all ages and walks of life, with or without musical experience. Every new member can be sure of a warm welcome - particularly in our tenth birthday year.”

The choir practises in the Baptist Church Meeting Rooms (next to Yates) most Mondays, from 7.30pm to 9.30pm. For details, phone 01944 758693 or 01653 692362.