IN reference to the photograph of Churchdown Male Voice Choir (Echo, September 22, p22). The date of May 1972 is incorrect.
In fact, the photograph was taken at the rear of the Bat and Ball in Churchdown in June 1977, two or three weeks after the choir's success at the Cheltenham Competitive Music Festival held on May 21. On that occasion, the test pieces were Schubert's None but the Lonely Heart' and Make a Joyful Noise unto the Lord by Michael Head.
Competing against two other choirs, we won the Cheltenham Orchestral and Choral Societies Challenge Cup.
The photograph shows from left to right, back row: Keith Cripps, Ted Jarvis, John Freeman, Harold Jones, Malcolm Jones, Eric Cooper, John Jefferies and Colin Acton.
Middle row: Charles Tomlin, Con Hayes, Charles Jones, unknown, Derrick O'Brien, Tom Smart, Mike Smart, unknown, Lyn Stephens and John Melton.
Front row: Jack Bartholomew, Ken Palmer, Ernest Waters, Bert Davies, John Blenkinsopp (conductor), Peggy Brookes (accompanist), Trefor David (chairman), Des Rowley, Phillip Gardiner, George Taylor and Leslie Franklin.
Currently, the choir is not engaged in competitive singing but is rather concentrating its efforts on raising funds for many local and national charities. Of all those in the photograph, only six of the group now sing with the choir – such is the passing of time.
If there is anyone who can recognise either or both of the unknowns, I would be only too glad to hear from them on 01242 513209.
If you are interested in joining us, you can access the choir website at www.churchdownmvc.com or contact me in the first instance.
Derrick O'Brien,
Choir archivist, Churchdown