This week is Local Newspaper Week and DAVE HIMELFIELD is looking at how we have helped the community over the last year. The overall theme is Your Voice and each day we are also highlighting an organisation that has rarely, if ever, appeared in the newspaper before

REJOICE at the chance to find out about a young choir today.

ReJoySing entertains community groups in Huddersfield and is looking for new members to spread the joy.

Founded 18 months ago, ReJoySing has brought happiness to old people’s homes, sheltered housing and people with learning difficulties – and has raised money for charity.

The choir – which has eight young singers – performs pop, classical and songs from musicals.

The choir rehearses at Moldgreen United Reformed Church and was set up by Caritas, a charity which works with numerous music projects in Huddersfield.

The choreographed choir was founded by Caritas members Pat Graham, who is ReJoySing co-ordinator; Gordon Balmforth, who is the choir’s musical director, and Elaine Cockram, who is the choir’s registrar.

Singers include nine-year-olds Charlotte Bourne and Georgia West, from Flockton; 14-year-olds Eden Kaye, from Waterloo, and Phillipa Crowther, from Grimescar; Lily Wingrove-Wilson, 13, from Waterloo, and 16-year-olds Natalie Newham, from Almondbury; and Laura Eaton and Sarah Craven, both from Dalton.

The choir’s diary includes a concert at St Joseph’s Church on Somerset Road in Moldgreen on July 11 and a gig to raise cash for Caritas at Moldgreen United Reform Church on July 31.

Pat said: “We aim to help people and raise funds for Caritas to help people in dire straits. People love singing. They love to get together and the girls are really getting together as a group and looking out for each other.

“It’s helping them see there’s another side of the coin. There are people with disabilities who need help and old people in homes.”

ReJoySing is open to boys and girls up to age 18, including people with disabilities.

Sessions cost £1 each.

ReJoySing is also available to perform for charities, sheltered homes and other good causes. For more information about ReJoySing call Pat Graham on 01484 357482 or Gordon Balmforth on 01484 510149.