STOP snoring – and start singing, says a Ringwood choir.

The town’s branch of the Rock Choir, pictured, which tackles all sorts of music from Motown to pop is urging people to banish the winter blues, improve their breathing and have some fun.

Natasha Willis, who runs the Ringwood group of the national choir, said: “Singing helps to exercise and strengthen muscles in the soft palette, which is where the snoring vibration occurs.

“A study carried out by the Royal Devon and Exeter NHS Foundation Trust found preliminary evidence that regular singing exercises may benefit people who snore. This prompted us to ask Rock Choir members whether they or their partners had noticed any improvements in their snoring since joining. Over ten per cent of respondents said yes.”

Ms Willis also runs Rock Choir’s weekly sessions in Christchurch, Romsey and Salisbury.

She said: “We’re always looking for new members and husbands and partners are very welcome to join us. They can even try a free taster session first.

“I can’t guarantee they’ll stop snoring, but I can say that they’ll have a great time singing.”

Rock Choir is the UK’s largest contemporary choir, with more than 16,000 members in more than 250 groups. There are no auditions and no requirements to read music or have any previous singing experience. There are also performances throughout the year, many of them to help raise money for charity.

Rock Choir’s new term has just started. Anyone interested in joining can book a free taster session at any time. To book or find out more, contact 01252 714 276 or go to www.rockchoir.com.