The Tamar Valley Male Voice Choir is one year old and its chairman, Charles Westlake, said 'the first year has seen success beyond our wildest expectations.' On April 23, 2006, nine men attended the meeting at which the choir was formed, and 11 men attended the first practice on May 9 — now there is a choir of 25. During its first year the choir gave 19 performances taking in both sides of the River Tamar in venues ranging in size from the Eden Project to the little chapel at Zoar, near Mary Tavy in Devon. It even appeared on Westcountry Television. From the outset life in the choir has been hectic, preparing for performances and engaging in a round of social and fund-raising activities. Director of music, Rosemary Cole, said it has been "an exciting challenge, full of fun and focused teamwork" as she has taken a group of men with a very wide range of musical experience and moulded them into a choir with a repertoire full of variety and vitality. The choir is fortunate not only to have had the support of accompanist David Crocker but also that of Elizabeth Sidebotham. It has songwriter and performer Richard Stilgoe as its first president and BBC South West's Justin Leigh as their first vice-president. Secretary, Chris Leggatt, said: 'I am astonished at the support we have received from people in the local area and beyond. We gained a great deal of confidence from the size and reaction of the audiences to which we have sung. 'We have already raised a considerable amount for charity and extend a huge 'thank you' to those who have accommodated us. We should also thank the 'Tamar Valley Ladies' who have contributed as much to the success of the venture as the men who do the singing.' The Tamar Valley Male Voice Choir started its second year last month with a concert on behalf of The Parish Church of St Hugh, Quethiock in St Lalluwy's Church, Menheniot. On May 5 the choir performed in Launceston Methodist Churh as part of the Cornwall International Male Voice Choir Festival. To find out more visit the choir's website on http://www.tamarvalleymvc.co.uk">www.tamarvalleymvc.co.uk or ring Jim Christophers on 01822 612140.