TEN years ago, a few enthusiastic people turned up to the drama hall at Ilkley Grammar school to form a choir.

Ten years later the choir is now 70 strong and men and women of all ages and abilities come along on Wednesday evenings to St Margaret’s Church Hall on Queens Road in Ilkley.

A spokesperson said: "We learn at least three songs a term, taught by our amazing choir leader Ainjiel Clark. The sessions include a vocal and physical warm up (don’t worry, its very gentle and only done if you can and want to). Ainjiel teaches us parts of the selected song over a couple of weeks. We sing in a four-part harmony, so it’s easy to find where your singing style sits. Throughout the term, performances are arranged. In the past we have had many great experiences performing at events locally and further afield. So many, but they include recording at Abbey Road in London, performing at the York Barbican, singing the Scottish national anthem on the pitch at Elland Road during the Rugby World Cup that was held there. The choir has sung lovely Christmas songs and carols before Santa turns on the Christmas lights in Ilkley and we have even done a flash mob on Ilkley Moor much to the surprise of lots of walkers! Just last month, many choir members travelled to Edinburgh, to take part in the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

"Each term is 10 weeks long and we meet at 7.45pm each Wednesday for 90 minutes of singing, laughter, friendship and fun. If you think you’d like to join us, book a free taster session at www.rockchoir.com "You will be made very welcome. To those people who are remembering their singing teacher telling them that they cannot sing, come along. You will find you have been able to sing all along. Who knows, you might enjoy it!"