New musical director appointed to lead choir

A women's choir has secured its future after finding a new musical director to take over in 2026.

The Major Oak Pop Choir, based in Edwinstowe in Nottinghamshire, faced uncertainty after the woman who set it up announced her intention to retire to Northumberland.

But after a recruitment process over the autumn, Thea Avison will assume the role and host her first session on 12 January.

"I have big shoes to fill, but I've often had adult and children's choirs throughout my adult life and it's something I'm really passionate about," the 46-year-old said.

"So I kind of jumped at the chance when this opportunity came up."

The choir was set up in 2015 by Pauline Daglish, a former music teacher, who wanted to make some new friends.

It has since raised about £90,000 for various local charities with three to four public performances each year.

The latest on 7 December raised £5,000 for St Mary's Church Edwinstowe and the Edwinstowe Community Food Hub.

It was also the last with Mrs Daglish at the helm, who said she felt "humbled".

"I think the culmination of 10 years really came together at the last concert, and I was so proud to look back and think of all the things we've achieved," she added.

Ms Avison, from Mansfield, said she was nervous and pleasantly surprised when she was told she had been chosen for the role of new musical director.

"They're such a lovely bunch of ladies, but not only that, they're so talented," she said.

"I've often sat there and listened and they've either brought me to tears or brought me to laughter... they love what they're doing and that comes across in their performances."

Ms Avison added: "Pauline's leaving a wonderful legacy and I just want to do the best to carry that forward for hopefully another 10 years.

"I hope that the many supporters that the choir has built over the last decade continue to support us and continue to come and listen to us."

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