_RNLI supporters filled Sutton Coldfield’s Town Hall for its main fundraising event of the year, a Celebration Concert performed by Canoldir Male Choir.

Musical Director and Conductor James Llewelyn Jones directed the choir through a lively and varied programme ranging from 'Ave Maria' to 'The Chorus of the Hebrew Slaves', from 'Can’t Help Falling in Love' to 'What Shall We Do With The Drunken Sailor'.

Local young violinist Jody Smith delighted the audience with her solo performances. A Year 10 pupil at Edgbaston High School for Girls, she has recently been invited to join the National Youth Orchestra. Alan Worrall, Baritone, also sang solo.

The audience together sang 'Eternal Father, Strong to Save' as befits the lifesaving charity.

Jill Carter, Branch Chairman, said: 'We had a great night at the Town Hall, but it was with a serious purpose - to raise funds for the brave volunteer lifeboat crews who are on call 365 days a year to save lives at sea. The RNLI believes that the crew members deserve the very best possible equipment to support them, and the funds raised at the concert will help towards replacing lifejackets. I'd like to say a big thank you to everyone who supported us.'
(Author: Carolyn McLaughlin, Branch Guild Press Officer - RNLI News Release)