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To find a gospel choir in Cumbria is rare. To find one as credible as the Lakes Gospel Choir is exceptional.
Members travel from all over the county to congregate at the Lakes Christian Centre at Bowness-on-Windermere on Monday nights to sing uplifting gospel and soul songs.
Using music from the Grammy award winning Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir of New York, energetic choir founder and director Robin Perris guides tenors, altos and sopranos through their parts.
Weekly practices lead up to about six public performances a year in churches across the North west.
Mrs Perris said: "We love singing gospel and want to spread the message of joy and hope which is contained within the songs we sing. We're a true community choirs and members range from their early teens to late 70s so there is a wide variety of culture and abilities."
Although you don't have to be religious to join the choir and about a third do no attend church, gospel songs are Christian and members are required to respect the religious ethos.
The choir was founded in 2003 by Robin, who is American, and her husband Michael, now the choir's musical technician.
And from humble beginnings in the Perris's kitchen in Storth it has grown from strength to strength.
Mrs Perris said: "At one point we did have 100 people, we're now at around 70 which is far more manageable - but if you enjoy singing and would like the opportunity to perform with us, we would love to hear from you."
Look out for choir openings posted on the website throughout the year. There is often a waiting list and you will be asked to audition, but it's a welcoming and friendly club and you don't need to have sung in choirs before. The next open evening for non-members is on March 1.
Article by: Allan Tunningley - The Citizen Newspaper