A TONGE Fold singing group is on the hunt for new members after receiving a big funding boost.

The Bolton Belters has launched its Belt It Out! project to reach out to music lovers aged 50 and over.

First forming in March last year, the a-cappella choir has received a £1,800 grant from Ambition for Ageing.

The money will pay for the 10-strong groups room rent at St Chads Church Hall for a year, as well as organising shows.

Choir leader Stef Portersmith from Preston said: "We hope to perform lots of concerts wherever Bolton’s senior residents meet socially, and hope to recruit a few new members this way.

"The aim is to reach people who are 50 and over with a series of 10 concerts, performing at places including sheltered housing and dementia support units.

"Music has a great way of bringing people together and also helps people reminisce, taking you back to times when you were younger.

"Our group was started to help St Chads stay open by using the rooms and we work in partnership with Team Tonge Fold.

"We are always seeking new members and are currently very in need of people with mid-range to high voices, although any voice type is welcome."

The choir members are a diverse group of local residents of all ages, performing in and around Crompton, Tonge with the Haugh and Halliwell area, but they welcome singers from all over Bolton.

The project will focus on music as a tool to improve health, reduce stress levels, combat loneliness, and promote community activity.

Mrs Portersmith, aged 55, added: "They are enthusiastic, work hard, and have a lot of fun in choir sessions. The choir is beginning to really nail some challenging arrangements and it sounds wonderful!

"A-cappella is a bit harder, you have to be aware of rhythm, tempo and keeping in time. We play all kinds of material."

Bolton Belters meets every Thursday at 7pm at the St Chads Church Community Room in Longworth Street.

To find out more contact Mrs Portersmith at stef@wellarty.net.