Rotary-Congleton's annual Christmas Concert raised the roof at the Daneside Theatre on Saturday, 11th December.

A near-capacity audience in the presence of the Mayor, Denis Murphy and his consort was absolutely thrilled by a varied programme of Christmas favourites and carols performed by The Silk Brass Band under its musical director Tony Wyatt.

The Park Road venue saw the local band accompanied by 40 members of the Eaton Bank Academy Encore Choir who also performed several solo numbers, demonstrating their skill and flexibility with old-time Christmas favourites and more modern a cappella numbers.

Soloists and small groups of pupils also split off from the main choir to sing and play instruments on their own.

They were led by head of music Clare Venables and music teacher, Cathy Evans.

Academy head, Ed O'Neil was in the audience as a guest of Rotary.

The audience was unable to sing along due to the present Covid rules and the requirement to wear masks at all times.

Nevertheless they were able to swing in their seats to The Snow Waltz.

Their applause called the band and choir back for two encores.

Compere, Rotarian Rod Goodier, ran the event and even found time to promote the work of Congleton Rotary Club in the community.

One member of the audience described the concert as being a super night, which paid testament to the enthusiasm and professionalism of all the youngsters from Eaton Bank and also Silk Brass.

Rotary president Stewart Price said it was the best concert he could remember!

Proceeds from the event will be used by Rotary to support local charities.

You can find more about Congleton Rotary here.

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