A CHORAL director is sending out a plea to experienced singers in Bolton, especially men, to take part in a commemorative World War One concert next month.

Jeff Borradaile, of Chorley New Road, is leading a “super choir” at the Honour event, taking place at Salford Quays on August 2, but needs tenors and basses to complete the group.

He has 300 people from choirs across Greater Manchester and Lancashire, but hopes to attract at least another 100 singers.

He will conduct a commemorative anthem, written by acclaimed composer Andy Smith, which draws inspiration from poets of the era and recalls the unbreakable spirit of the troops and the loved ones left behind.

Mr Borradaile, who also conducts the Blackburn People’s Choir, said: “So far we have got about 300 singers who have taken part in three workshops. But as the event is getting closer, we need to recruit as many as we can now so that they have time to rehearse.

“It is mainly male singers we are lacking, which is so often the case. However, if there are female vocalists that feel they would like to take part then they are more than welcome.

“It will be the largest outdoor event of its kind at Salford Quays, so it is a fabulous opportunity to be part of something big, especially in the centenary year of the war.”

The vocal performance forms the centrepiece of the free outdoor show, which also features newly-commissioned music, animation, contemporary dance and theatre inspired by memories of men and women from the North West affected by the conflict between 1914 and 1918.

Mr Borradaile added: “This is such a unique opportunity, to be part of a performance that brings together visual, performance and dance elements in this way. People don’t have to be perfect singers. Nobody will be asked to sing on their own and everyone is welcome.”

To find out more, email honoursingers@gmail.com Those who join must be able to attend rehearsals on a Monday and Wednesday, and the concert itself.