THE Redditch branch of the Royal National Lifeboat Institution is holding a 24th birthday concert this weekend with the Bel Canto Choir the stars of the show.

The event, at Walkwood Middle School, Headless Cross, will feature songs from the shows and has been planned to celebrate both the branch's anniversary and the birthday of the founder of the RNLI, William Hillary, on March 4.

Funds raised from the concert will be used to buy equipment for use at the Newquay lifeboat station in Wales.

Branch press secretary Kim Hoey said: "The branch has raised thousands of pounds by organising things such as social events, supermarket collections and raffles. Last year, we raised £8,500.

"We look forward to the concert being the beginning of another successful fund-raising year.

"As it costs more than £300,000 per day to provide the service, fund-raising by the Redditch branch is an important contribution and we hope the local community will support our endeavours."

Tickets for the 8pm concert cost £6 to include refreshments and can be bought on the door or in advance from M Dilley on 69098 or K Hoey on 66260.