by Sam Hawcroft
Withernsea Ladies’ Choir have been presented with new PA equipment by Blue Light Weekend, making it easier for the popular group to perform at community events across the area.
The presentation followed the choir’s appearance at Blue Light Weekend’s Military Village, where they dressed in 1940s headscarves and Women’s Land Army-style costumes to perform popular wartime songs. They were accompanied by pianist Paul Pike, who donned a sharp pinstripe suit and trilby for the occasion.
The choir’s musical director, Patrick Pearson, said the new lightweight system was “a wonderful gift” that would transform their work.
“It was something we needed because the one we’d originally bought was so heavy. This one is all bells and whistles – there are no wires, and you can lift it with one hand,” he said.
Patrick added that the advice of long-time Withernsea musician and sound man Kevin Lythe was crucial. Kevin, who ran the sound at the Military Village, guided the organisers on the best option to buy.
“Kevin recommended the best scenario for us,” Patrick said. “He’s a dear friend, and what he doesn’t know about sound isn’t worth knowing. The new system, with his help, will be much better for us – especially when we get the additional wireless microphones we’re also seeking funding for.”
Blue Light Weekend co-director Andy Medcalf said: “One of our aims is to give back to the local community, and after seeing the Ladies’ Choir perform so brilliantly at the new Military Village – as well as at our first two Blue Light Weekends – we wanted to do something that would help them in a practical way. This new PA will support them at all their events, whether indoors or outdoors.”
The choir are now gearing up for a busy festive run. Their programme begins with a Carol of the Bells concert at St Nicholas Church, Withernsea, on Friday, November 28, followed by an appearance at Patrington’s Christmas lights on Sunday, November 30.
They will then perform at Burstwick WI on Tuesday, December 2, before taking part in Withernsea’s Dickensian Christmas extravaganza on Saturday, December 6. Their schedule concludes with a service at Lelley Fields Crematorium on Saturday, December 13.