THE HOLME Valley Singers is without a conductor again and on the lookout for a new musician to take on the job.

The mixed voice group was delighted when last May, with the help of the internet, it recruited a new conductor to step into the job vacated by Jim Morgan who had led the choir for 25 years.

Sadly, their new man Lipok Tzudir (inset), has had to return to India and the search for a replacement begins all over again.

Lipokmar Tzudir, 31, is from Nagaland, India and was studying music at Sheffield University. He travelled every Tuesday evening to take the weekly rehearsals at Thongsbridge.

It is a double disappointment for the choir who have also had to pull out of the Mrs Sunderland Music festival which is two weeks away.

“We had to miss the competition last year and were all really looking forward to competing again,” said a choir spokesman.

“The choir has learned a lot from Lipok and his unique way of coaching has been an inspiration to us all.

“Under Lipok’s direction we performed three successful concerts at Armitage Bridge, Brodsworth Hall and Denby Dale.”

Deputy conductor Kim Kaye has volunteered to take up the baton until a replacement is found and rehearsals will continue on Tuesday night during term time at Holmfirth High School 7pm to 9pm.

The choir has entered the Whitby Festival in April and Kim is prepared to conduct there.

“We would like to thank Dr Andy Williams, Head at Holmfirth High for his continuing support.”

Anyone interested should contact chairman John Miller, 29 Queens Rd, Edgerton, HD2 2AB, 01484 535004.