NOT satisfied with performing at the country's most prestigious music venue just once, an Alcester group are returning to the Albert Hall for a second time.

Alcester Male Voice Choir, now in its 28th year, has achieved notable success nationally and internationally, earning a deserved reputation.

And it was probably this reputation which encouraged the Welsh Association of Male Choirs to invite the the Alcester choir to its 40th birthday celebration.

The grand event will be held in the Albert Hall on March 16.

Because all the choirs taking part in the event are scattered around the country, ensemble rehearsals have proved almost impossible.

But Alcester came to the rescue as the Greig Hall acted as a regional rehearsal venue for choirs from Sheffield, Oxford, Worcester and Shrewsbury.

As well as preparing for the Albert Hall, the choir are also busy performing in and around the area.

Their next concert will be at the Ecumenical Centre in Redditch on Saturday, December 15, at 7.30pm in aid of Where Next, a charity which provides work experience and training for people with learning difficulties.

Tickets cost £6 and are available on 69992.

New members are always welcome to join the choir. For more details, call 401743.