Resident and group organiser, Ruth Astley proudly shares, “This is not a choir, we’re a sing-along group and we have lots of fun.”

The group of up to fifteen residents is no formal choir but rather an ensemble dedicated to enjoyment of singing. Each session runs for 45 minutes, after which the group enjoys a well-deserved cuppa. The music is brought to life by a talented pianist from outside the village, ensuring a lively and professional accompaniment.

The group’s repertoire is as varied as it is nostalgic, featuring songs from beloved musicals such as "The King & I" and "Cabaret," to timeless classics like "Amazing Grace,” and "Strangers in the Night." Ruth has compiled volumes of song booklets for an easy-to-follow sing-along for all residents.

“Singing is good for our mind and spirit” Ruth explains. “You don’t have to be a great singer to be in the group, we encourage residents to come along and enjoy it.” This inclusivity is echoed by fellow resident Tony Trent, who sometimes leads with his guitar. “A lot of the songs we sing, people remember their wedding songs or an occasion attached to it,” he says.

The tradition of this singing group dates back to the early 1990s when it was formed by founding resident, Aileen Swallow a local pianist. In a heartfelt tribute, the group sang at her funeral to honour her legacy and the vibrant musical community she supported.

The group frequently engages in discussions about the origins of songs and their composers, and they cherish the memories that certain songs evoke, sharing these recollections with each other.

With the doors to the Arvida Mayfair community lounge wide open, the voices drift through the village every Friday – and they’re even open to taking a song request or two as well.