Wistaston Singers present first concert of 2026

The Wistaston Singers will stage a fundraiser concert for Cancer Research UK at St Mary's Church Hall on January 17, featuring local choirs, a handbell ensemble and soloists.

Wistaston Singers will open their 2026 season with a fundraiser concert at St Mary's Church Hall in Wistaston on January 17. The event is being held in aid of Cancer Research UK and brings together several local performers. This will be the choir's first performance under musical director Clare Shackleton after the retirement of Phil Houghton. The programme is described as varied, with contributions from church and community ensembles and soloists. Event details: - Date and venue: Saturday January 17 at St Mary's Church Hall, Wistaston. - Beneficiary and proceeds: The concert is a fundraiser for Cancer Research UK and proceeds will be donated to the charity. - Participants: Wistaston Singers will be joined by St Mary's Church Choir, the Wistaston Belles handbell ensemble, and soloists Liam Tyler and Lucia Kemp. - Tickets and pricing: Adult tickets are priced at £10 and under-16s at £5, with proceeds directed to the chosen charity. - Leadership and choir profile: This is the choir's first performance under new musical director Clare Shackleton, following Phil Houghton's retirement; the group has about 60 members aged from their 20s to their 80s. - Repertoire and community activity: The choir's repertoire ranges from musical theatre and popular classics to classical works, and it runs regular weekly sessions including free taster sessions held on Wednesdays at Gainsborough Primary School. Summary: The concert brings local singers and ensembles together to raise funds for Cancer Research UK and marks a leadership change for the Wistaston Singers. The immediate next event is the January 17 concert at St Mary's Church Hall.