A LIVELY and friendly musical society comprising a mixed choir and orchestra is celebrating 70 years since its founding year.

Ramsbottom Choral Society had grown to around 35 to 40 members by the time it expanded to become the Ramsbottom Choral Society and Concert Orchestra in the summer of 1985.

The orchestra was born after long-standing conductor Barry Sugden placed an advert in the Bury Times, inviting musicians to meet together at St Francis House Church in Brandlesholme — now All Saints Church.

It gave its first performance with the choir in Ramsbottom Civic Hall on Sunday, September 8, 1985.

Mr Sugden, who became the musical director in 1984, said: "I will always be grateful to the society for giving me the chance to explore some of the greatest choral works ever written and the unfailing support from the members of both the choir and orchestra."

Mr Sugden took over from Eddie Evans, who had been the conductor for 19 years. Under his leadership, the society began singing in Latin, and has performed choral repertoire including Handel’s Messiah, Verdi’s Requiem, and Elgar’s Dream of Gerontius.

One musician who performed at the first joint concert in 1985 was Liz Forrest, now Principal 2nd Violin, who said: "I enjoyed this friendly orchestra so much and all the happy players. We had lots of fun."

To celebrate their 70th year, the society will perform an anniversary concert on Saturday, March 23, at Bolton Road Methodist Church.

To coincide with their celebration year, the society also launched a new website for 2019 — www.rcsco.org — and is keen to expand by taking on new members.

Mr Sugden said: "The society is in a strong position to move forward into the future."

To get involved, contact Mr Sugden on 0161 761 2985.