A CHOIR for cancer survivors and those battling the disease is on the lookout for singers to join in time for this year's Christmas showpiece.

It will be the third occasion the North West’s only dedicated choir for cancer patients and cancer survivors has staged the Jingle Bell Sing-A-Long — and this year singers will be joined for the first time by the Greater Manchester Police Band.

The concert has a strong audience participation element with everyone coming together in rousing voice to sing a selection of carols and well-known Christmas melodies.

Now the choir is inviting anyone who has received a cancer diagnosis of any type, at any time, to join them on stage.

The invitation is also extended to any healthcare professionals involved in the treatment, care or support of cancer patients and their families.

Members need to be able to commit to attending five rehearsals in the lead up to the event.

Karen Elliott, chair of Bolton Cancer Voices, said: "This is a great concert for the whole family, which just keeps getting better year on year.

"We already have around 25 additional people who have been coming along to participate in ‘Jingle Bell Sing-A-Long’ since we introduced the event in 2013, including a number of professionals and we would like to offer more cancer patients, cancer survivors and healthcare professionals — both in hospitals and in the community — the chance to come and experience the joy of singing and the exhilaration of live performance.

"We think we can accommodate a further 20 people but will do our best to ensure we don’t turn anybody away should numbers exceed this."

None of the songs being performed by the choir is difficult and you do not need to be able to read music to take part.

There is also no geographical restrictions as long as people meet the basic criteria and can get to Bolton for rehearsals.

Tickets for Jingle Bell Sing-A-Long are already available priced £5 from 01204 883977.

To enquire about taking part in Jingle Bell Sing-A-Long contact Karen on 01204 595562 or 07773 164235 or email Boltoncancervoices@yahoo.com