THE huge contribution made to choral music in this country by Alan Simmons, of Scissett, has been recognised by him being made a vice-president of the National Association of Choirs.

There was no chance of our missing the event, at which Alan is seen here receiving a certificate to mark the award from national president Eric Jackson.

For behind the camera was Eric Cooper, of Edgerton, the association's newly re-elected national publicity officer.

Eric from the bass section of Colne Valley Male Voice Choir is its official voice as press officer, as well as being joint conductor of the U3A choir.

It was very much Yorkshire day at the NAC meeting for a similar presentation was also made to publisher Bob Barrett of Northallerton for sterling service over many years.

Alan Simmons, of Scissett, and Mastersingers fame, is a former MD of Skelmanthorpe MVC and Kirklees music adviser and his compositions and arrangements are widely used by many choirs.

This year the NAC has given its blessing to the campaign In Tune With ChildLine in which music makers are invited to raise money for the UK's free 24-hour helpline for children and young people.

There is a target of £32,000 and choirs are asked to organise concerts and collections to help.

Alan is making a donation to the Esther Rantzen-inspired charity - which is celebrating its 18th birthday - from the proceeds of his song Roads which will be sung at some of the concerts.