The North West’s only dedicated Choir for cancer patients and cancer survivors is holding a recruitment drive to share their joy of singing and encourage others to find their voices and harness the power of song to help them through treatment and in to survivorship.

Open to everyone, anywhere, who has received a cancer diagnosis of any type, at any time, Bolton Cancer Voices provides a weekly opportunity to do something enjoyable, positive, energizing, uplifting and empowering at a time when it can feel that life is somewhat out of control and revolving around the demands of a treatment schedule. In an environment that appreciates the limitations cancer and its treatment may impose, the Choir gives people the chance to meet with others in a similar situation and benefit from the camaraderie that comes of singing as part of a group.

The Choir welcomes people at all stages in their cancer journey and beyond: one member joined them just a day after receiving their diagnosis and another 55 years post diagnosis. Membership does not require any particular musical knowledge or previous experience; Musical Director – Clive Rushworth – makes learning easy, fun and inclusive for all, no matter what people’s skill level: and remarkably, the Choir has no membership fee!

Formed in June 2012, Bolton Cancer Voices is going from strength to strength, gaining both in confidence and technical ability and embracing participation in a varied programme of performances and activities: the latest event being their popular ‘Jingle Bell Sing-A-Long’ concert, which took place in the Victoria Hall, Bolton and featured guest musicians the Greater Manchester Police Band. 2015 saw them undertake six concerts / appearances, two workshops and a number of promotional and social events.

Though cancer brings this Choir together it is their love of singing that unites them: they do not allow themselves to be defined by cancer, they are a community Choir like any other: embracing life and living it to the full, cancer is never allowed to stand in their way or limit their dreams and aspirations.

Karen Elliott – Chair ofBoltonCancer Voices said: -

‘I am so tremendously proud of our members, it’s wonderful to see the Choir achieving an ever-higher standard: and I know Bolton Cancer Voices has played a part in helping some through their personal cancer journeys, which is a huge privilege.

We have already welcomed three new members this year and look forward to welcoming many more: I would urge anyone who meets our criteria for membership to come along and give us a try!’

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 or visit their website – www.boltoncancervoices.org.uk