A LOCAL singing group has donated £2,000 to the Winchester Hospice appeal following a charity concert.

Winchester Fusion Choir raised the money at a packed-out show held in All Saints Church – a memorial to Brian Bell, a 56-year-old Winchester bus driver who died from cancer on January 12.

Choir members, Peter and Anne Whitmarsh, organised the concert and the lively audience were received by the Rev Michael Griffiths, who described the singing as beautiful.

The proceeds have been presented to Sabrina Marsden, the hospice appeal fundraising assistant, by Peter Whitmarsh and Marie O’Brien.

A total of £1,726 was raised through ticket sales and a raffle. This was boosted to £2,000 by the generosity of choir member, Trevor Maidment, who designed and made jewellery to sell.

The choir meets every Friday at The Salvation Hall in Parchment Street. Session one takes place between 1.30pm and 3.00 pm, and the second between 4pm and 5.30pm.

Tea and coffee is provided between choirs and each session costs £5.50.