A COMMUNITY choir that launched this year now has more than 70 members thanks to funding by Great Yarmouth and Waveney NHS.Gorleston Community Choir, originally funded by Seachange Arts, received �2,000 from the NHS through its small grants scheme to purchase equipment.

A COMMUNITY choir that launched this year now has more than 70 members thanks to funding by Great Yarmouth and Waveney NHS.

Gorleston Community Choir, originally funded by Seachange Arts, received �2,000 from the NHS through its small grants scheme to purchase equipment. Now so successful, the choir has been asked to be the first group to perform at this year's Cliff Top Festival event on the August 2.

Jackie Whiting, the choir's musical director, said: “Our motto is singing together. Our aim is to have fun rehearsing and performing a wide variety of popular music from the modern era including Lennon and McCartney, Josh Groban and others as well as and songs from films and the theatre.

“We are tackling some gospel and classical pieces too. We believe in widening local opportunities to anyone who shares our love for singing. We hope you enjoy the music we can share with you.”

Small groups with an annual turnover of up to �100,000 can apply for the grant.

Further details are available from Waveney Community Forum by phoning 01502 582201 and Voluntary Norfolk on 01493 845925. Support and guidance for groups wanting to develop projects is also available through the scheme.