AN over-50s choir in Thurrock has celebrated its fifth birthday.

Golden Voices, which has performed at numerous Thurrock landmarks, such as Thameside Theatre and the Tilbury Cruise Terminal, was formed in October 2008 after the idea grew from the Thurrock Older People’s Conference in 2007.

Since then, membership has increased and the group has gone from strength-to-strength.

Led by professional musical director Daryl Branch from Impetuous Kinship, has encouraged the ensemble to sing songs they may not necessarily listen to out of choice, ensuring a modern and varied repertoire.

Songs by popstars Bruno Mars and Paloma Faith feature alongside older classics like Memory, from Cats.

Karen Glazzard, Golden Voices Chair, said: “It seems unbelievable that five years have passed and 2013 was another fantastic year.

“We were involved in concerts in Grays Town Park, Thameside Theatre and Tilbury Cruise Terminal with the Royal Opera House Thurrock Community Chorus and other local choirs and lots more. There have been so many highlights this year, but there were two special occasions: appearing at Thurrock T-Fest and our first ever wedding performance in North London.

“We are more than happy to sing for local community groups to liven up activities and entertain group members as well as getting involved in bigger events. We already have bookings during December but please do get in touch with Alan Phillips, our events co-ordinator, to discuss how we can support your group.”

The group are always on the look out for new members and events to perform at.

Anyone interested in joining the group can contact the membership secretary, Mary Stockwell, on 01375 383867 or email her mary.stockwell@btinternet.com. More information can be found at www.thurrockgoldenvoices.webs.com.