SOUTH Devon Choir has presented a giant cheque for £1,000 at Torbay Hospital, to thank the dedicated local health workers for their care and commitment during the covid pandemic, and to support their work in the local community.

The money was raised by the Choir at a special day of song at Paignton Parish Church, with a workshop and evening performance of Fauré’s beautiful ‘Requiem’.

In addition to raising funds to support the local NHS, the day was also dedicated as a memorial to those affected by and lost in the pandemic. The Choir invited all singers and would-be singers to join them for the workshop, which was followed by an informal performance of the ‘Requiem’.

The money – far more than the choir had hoped to be able to raise – came from the 65 workshop participants, the large audience at the performance, and many donations, large and small, that were received afterwards.

Liz Davenport, chief executive at Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust, said: ‘I would like to thank the South Devon Choir and everyone who supported their ‘come and sing’ performance for their generosity and kindness.

‘Donations to our charitable fund can be used to fund new equipment, improve our environments and support wellbeing initiatives for our staff, and we will work closely with the choir members on how we use this donation.’’

She added: ‘Support from local people means so much to our organisation, and this donation highlights the compassion and support that our local communities provide.”

Jill Stevens, the choir

chairperson, said: ‘Many of us in the choir, like anyone else, have known people who were affected by the pandemic to a greater or lesser degree. This was our chance to pay tribute to them, and especially to say a huge thank you for the hard work and commitment of the carers who have helped us through it.’

‘I’d like to thank all those who took part, as singers or supporters, not only in making the day such a memorable occasion but also in enabling us to make this gift to our local NHS.’

The Choir is already looking forward to its next performance, featuring Mozart’s ‘Coronation Mass’ and some of Handel’s most loved choruses and arias, in November. Rehearsals begin in early September.