A choir have bid a sad farewell to their musical director after he conducted his last concert.

Ellis Bell has directed the Halstead Choral Society for the last four years but is leaving due to work pressures.

He conducted the choir for the last time in their annual Christmas performance in December. 

During his time with the choir, he has extended their repertoire and improved the performance of the choir.

Sue Bennett, chairman of the Society, said: “It has been a privilege to work with such a talented musician.”

During the Christmas Concert Mr Bell passed his conducting baton onto Philip Prior, an organist and director of music at St Peter-ad-Vinacular in Coggeshall, who will take over in the role of musical director.

He will be leading the choir in Mozart's Requiem for their next concert in March.

New members are always welcome to join the choir, which rehearse at 7.30pm on Monday evenings at The United Reformed Church, Halstead.

For further information please ring Sue Bennett 01787 478759 or visit halsteadchoral.co.uk.