TWO former Salisbury Cathedral choristers will join Fordingbridge Choral Society on December 16 in a programme celebrating the glory of Christmas.

Georgia and Katie Darke will feature in their famous ancestor, Harold Darke's, beautiful setting of In the bleak midwinter.

Harold Darke who composed church choral music was also a renowned teacher and organist for much of his life at St Michael's, Cornhill in London.

The choir is joined by Avon Brass, Fordingbridge Handbell Ringers and organist Sam Hanson, and features the premiere of Canite Tuba– Blow the trumpet in Sion – a lively and effective work for choir, brass, timpani and organ written by Musical Director Nigel Edwards for the choir’s 40th anniversary this year.

Also being performed is Bob Chilcott’s Gloria, and with plenty of well-known carols for choir and audience.

Fordingbridge Choral Society says the concert should prove to be an exciting and enjoyable celebration in the approach to Christmas.

The Christmas Glory concert takes place at St Mary's Church, Fordingbridge, 7.30pm.

Tickets are available in advance at £10 (£5 for those 16 and under) from Fordingbridge Bookshop in Salisbury Street or the Fordingbridge Choral Society secretary on 01425 655249. Alternatively, they can be purchased at the door on the night for £12.

Seasonal refreshments will be served in the interval.