Both the long-standing leader and accompanist are set to retire from the Bracken Trust Singers this summer, after leading the group for 14 and 12 years, respectively.
During the early months of this year at one of their usual Tuesday morning practice sessions at Llanyre Village Hall, it was announced that both leader, Christine (Chris) Clarke and accompanist, Bev Nethercoat would, in late summer, by retiring from the Singers.
Christine has headed the group since its inception 14 years ago and Bev has been the accompanist for 12 years.
The Singers’ notable concerts during 2024 included taking part in the Service of Thanksgiving for Volunteers in the local community in Holy Trinity Church in March, and a full house at Llanyre Village Hall in June.
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In August the Singers, by way of thanks, celebrated and paid tribute to leader, Chris and accompanist, Bev at a farewell buffet held at the Lakeside Restaurant in Llandrindod Wells.
After the meal, presentations of beautiful baskets of arranged flowers were made to Chris and Bev by members Sandra Gayther and Vera Buckler, on behalf of the Singers. Then Bracken Trust Trustee and Singers member Barry Hicks, MBE, summed up the whole ethos of the Bracken Trust Singers during the 14 years, and the memories the group have made together. He ended by thanking everyone, especially Christine and Bev for their tremendous contribution to the Singers’ undoubted success.
It seemed appropriate, given in the past they have performed a high number of concerts at Crosfield House, that their final concert under the guidance of Chris and Bev should be at this venue, at the care home’s Summer Fayre on Saturday, August 17. This concluded a memorable era, which included so many concerts, other performances, and very many Tuesday practices which befits a Bracken Trust charity and therapy singing group.
The Bracken Trust Singers will continue to meet each Tuesday morning at Llanyre Church Hall under the new leadership of Vera Buckler. New members wishing to join the Singers should contact the Bracken Trust on 01597 823646 for more information.