Alresford Community Choir’s next concert will be under the baton of new choir director Simon Gallear.

Entitled Remembrance, it will not be a service but a concert in memory of times past and people who will never be forgotten.

There will be works by Rutter, Vaughan Williams and Purcell, plus less solemn pieces such as La Mer, Moon River and A Nightingale Sang In Berkeley Square. It will take place at St John’s Church in Alresford on November 8 at 7.30pm.

Simon Gallear has taken the reins from Keith Clarke, who founded the choir and oversaw its expansion over 14 years.

He said: “I am absolutely delighted to have taken over the role of director of Alresford Community Choir. Founded with a single concert in mind, it has quickly grown into a remarkable choir, deeply rooted in the community and with many fantastic performances to its name.

“But for me, what makes Alresford Community Choir truly special is that despite its many great successes, it remains true to its founding values - no auditions, no previous experience required. Fundamentally Alresford Community Choir is about enjoying making music with other people.

“While every member of the choir has a part to play in this, Keith Clarke’s expertise and enthusiasm over the years have been at the very heart of this success, and it’s a great privilege to have been able to work with him and to have the opportunity to continue his inspirational work.”

Simon is a consort baritone who has performed with many of the country’s leading vocal ensembles, and he also teaches singing in Winchester. He is married to Caroline, a midwife, and they have three children.

There will be a retiring collection for the Royal British Legion and armed forces charity SSAFA. For tickets, priced £10, visit https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/alresford-community-choir