Choir gets a new uniform for a new century

THERE'S some debate over the exact date that marks the birth of Frampton Cotterell Male Voice Choir.

It has been in existence under that name since 1925 but its origins go even further back, to a choir formed in 1921 to raise money to support miners during a strike at Coalpit Heath Colliery.

At the end of its first century (give or take a couple of years) the choir is still going strong, and to mark this milestone, the choir decided to launch a new uniform.

Chris Fletcher, a member of the working group that came up with the uniform design, said: "We needed something that was smart, distinctive and more consistent than the old 'wear a dark suit' rule that we used to apply.

"A waistcoat embroidered with the choir logo fitted the bill, and has met with widespread approval from choir members and audience alike."

Embroidery was by Tayz of Winterbourne and the uniform was funded with generous support from South Gloucestershire Council and Frampton Cotterell Parish Council.

Frampton Cotterell Male Voice Choir performs in and around the village and has raised over £2,500 for charity in the past year alone.

The choir always welcomes new members: it’s a friendly choir and all men are welcome – there’s no requirement for previous singing experience or musical knowledge, and definitely no audition. Rehearsals are on Friday evenings, and there will be a special Open Rehearsal on September 15 from 7.30pm in Zion United Church, followed by a beer or two afterwards, for any men interested in giving it a try.

For more information visit www.fcmvc.co.uk or contact Russell at sec.fcmvc@gmail.com.