ONE of the most rousing events in Wyre Forest's social calendar returns next month when Music For You is staged for the 24th year running, at Kidderminster Town Hall.

The eagerly anticipated two evenings of music and song - on October 7 and 8 - combine to form a major fund-raiser for charity as well as good nights out for concert-goers.

Backed by the Shuttle/Times and News and supported by sponsors, Music For You has made over £121,000 for good causes down the years, with £4,800 generated by last year's extravaganza.

Richard Woodhead, a member of the committee organising the event, said there would be something to suit most tastes, culminating in the traditional last night of the proms-style finale, with Land of Hope and Glory and Jerusalem raising the rafters. Soloist, mezzo soprano, Margaret Peters, will sing Rule Britannia.

Performers this year include Stourport Brass Band, Kidderminster Valentines, West Midland Light Orchestra and Wyre Forest Symphony Orchestra.

The breadth of the music on offer ranges from Fingal's Cave by Mendelssohn to the Carpenters' Goodbye to Love.

Music For You has come a long way from its origins, when it was sparked by a conversation over a pint in the pub, Mr Woodhead explained. "It plays to packed houses," he said, "It's always jam packed on the Friday and Saturday."

Variety is key to the event's ongoing success. "It's right across the board," said Mr Woodhead. "There's something for everybody. That's why we have stayed with this tried and trusted formula.

"All the players give their time for free so the money goes to the charities." Charities that will benefit this year are Kemp Hospice, Cancer Research UK and Kidderminster Hospital League of Friends.

Music for You will again be compered by media personality, Peter Tomlinson. Stourport Brass Band will be playing the Candide Overture by Leonard Bernstein and Goodbye to Love. There is more Bernstein from West Midland Light Orchestra, who will perform Tonight, from West Side Story.

Kidderminster Valentines' repertoire will include Andrew Lloyd Webber compositions, among them Pie Jesu, while Fingal's Cave will be played by Wyre Forest Symphony Orchestra.

Urging people to book their tickets as soon as possible, Mr Woodhead said: "I think there's nothing better than having a good time and raising money for charity at the same time.

"The combination of those two things makes it all worthwhile."

More details and tickets are available from Music For You's treasurer, Tony Sabey, on 01562 823009. Tickets can also be obtained from Kidderminster Town Hall, T H Hunter, Kidderminster, Mr Cleancall, Stourport and Bewdley Books.