MORE than 50 people attended the launch of a new group set up to back a renowned Newport choir.
An inaugural meeting of the Friends of Newport Cathedral Choir was held on the anniversary of the founding of the Diocese of Monmouth.
Very Reverend Dr Richard Fenwick, Dean and founding president of FNCC, announced a list of distinguished vice-presidents who had promised to help in the development of the new organisation.
They included the former director of music at St Paul's Cathedral and now director of chapel music at Winchester College, Malcolm Archer; president of the ICC David Morgan; the founder and former director of Jodrell Bank, Professor Bernard Lovell.
Others are the Professor Brian Peeling, the Bishop of Monmouth, Avril Harding, Rosemary Butler AM, Paul Flynn MP, David Davies MP, Dr Mary Archer, Phillip Moore, Dr Barry Rose and Jeanette Massocchi.
Christopher Barton, Master of the Choristers and chairman of FNCC, explained the association would assist in promoting the activities of the choir and, in the future, it was hoped to establish bursaries to support the musical education of choristers.
Following the meeting, everyone enjoyed an informal choral and orchestral concert.
For information about how to become a Friend of Newport Cathedral Choir contact Imaher13@hotmail.com
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