SIR,

Monmouth Choral Society's Christmas concert took on a different form this winter and incorporated some seasonal secular readings among its carols.

We should like to thank all our guests who helped us compile such a varied programme and especially members of Monmouth Comprehensive School Girls Choir, who took part under the musical direction of Mrs Sally Ellerington.

It was the first time the Society had made use of the new dais in St Mary's Priory Church, the main advantage being that our audience can now see our soloists, who from a raised level, are now able to project their voices more easily to the rear of the church. We are sure this new structure is proving to be a useful and much appreciated asset.

We should also like to thank our supportive audience, who despite the credit crunch, gave generously to our retirement collection, enabling us to make a valuable donation to the Monmouth Visually Impaired club.

Angela Hoyle

(Monmouth Choral Society)