The North West’s first dedicated Choir for cancer patients and cancer survivors will celebrate its fifth Birthday later this year.

Formed in June 2012, Bolton Cancer Voices has gone from strength to strength, growing both in terms of numbers and technical ability. Currently numbering some forty members, the Choir undertake a variety of concerts / appearances and activities each year; always with a mind to challenging, inspiring and enhancing the experience of its members.

With an exciting programme planned for 2017, the Choir is presently looking to recruit additional members to join its ranks. There is only one criterion for membership and that is that you must have received a cancer diagnosis at some point in your life. People from across theNorth Westand beyond can join, as long as they are able to travel to the centre ofBoltonfor rehearsals. Previous choral experience isn’t necessary; there is no requirement to read music, no auditions to worry about and membership is FREE!

Though cancer brings this Choir together and the Choir offers an informal forum to meet with others, who are or have been in a similar situation, the emphasis at their weekly rehearsals is on singing and having fun.

Karen Elliott, Chair of Bolton Cancer Voices said: -

‘Music provides a welcome distraction from the rigours of hospital appointments and treatment and a great way of moving forward after treatment is complete. In an environment where everyone appreciates the challenges of cancer, there is always something positive and life affirming to focus on and look forward to.

Our optimum membership number is 70, so we can accommodate lots more enthusiastic people looking to share their joy of singing.

Singing is a great activity that can have therapeutic benefits too; so if you meet our criterion for membership, please do get in touch: we’re a really friendly bunch and we’d love to hear from you.’

The Choir rehearses on Monday evenings at the Friends Meeting House, in Bolton. To find out more about this inspirational Choir call Karen on 01204 595562 / 07773 164235.