Mansfield and District Male Voice Choir is celebrating after Margaret Ball became the longest continuously-serving accompanist in its history.

Margaret joined the choir in 2002 and has been a solid foundation to the rehearsals and performances, having supported three musical directors.

She said it was a great pleasure to belong to the choir’s family.

A spokesman for the choir said: “Margaret continues with vigour and interest, even on dark wintry evenings when it can be an effort to travel to rehearsals.

“Margaret underlined the point that you go home uplifted by the camaraderie and the sheer pleasure of singing.

“Without her steadfast accompaniment it is certain that we would not have been as well prepared as we are when singing in concerts. This has taken the choir to venues across the country as well as innumerable local concerts.

“Many thanks Margaret and long may your association with the choir continue.”

Choir president David Marriott and chairman John Wakeland presented Margaret with a certificate as testament to her dedication, along with cards and gifts.

The annual Christmas Concert with Newstead Brass Band at Forest Town Arena on 15th December, one of the choir’s flagship events of the year, is now sold out.

However, the choir is also holding its Christmas Concert at St Philip Neri Church, Mansfield, on 2nd December at 7pm. It will feature the St Philip Neri church choir.

Tickets cost £10 and are available from Eileen Lawrence, choir secretary, on 01623 455373 or Lynden Lowe, concert manager, on 01623 230023, or will be available on the door.