YOUNG singers from Bolton were joined by voices from as far away as Switzerland and Belgium at the Sing For Pleasure 50th anniversary celebration at Victoria Hall.

The national choral organisation's concert was attended by more than 1,000 singers and guests from Great Britain and Europe joining Bolton Junior Youth Choir and Bolton Music Service, which provides music services for schools, teachers, young people and their families.

About 800 singers from choirs in Wigan, Anglesey, Glasgow, Switzerland and Belgium performed at the celebratory concert, before they came together as a massed choir to perform Vivaldi’s Gloria.

Sing for Pleasure is a national charity that aims to encourage the enjoyment of choral singing.

Jane Hampson, senior manager for Bolton Council’s adult and children’s services, said: “We were honoured that the organisation chose to come to Bolton for its Golden Jubilee celebration.

“There was a 25th anniversary celebration in Huddersfield but for this one we wanted it to be extra special, and Bolton’s Victoria Hall is an incredible venue so it was perfect.

“After the concert, 170 people went to a special dinner at the music centre, and on Sunday we went to Deane Church for a thanksgiving service. It was a fantastic weekend.

“The feedback from the event has been amazing on social media especially with people saying that it was an event to remember.”