Centenary cathedral concert to unite 100 voices

More than 100 singers will take to the stage as part of a special concert celebrating Blackburn Cathedral's centenary.

Performers from Local Vocals and Blackburn's New Road Music Studios will come together for the event.

The 100 Voices for 100 Years concert will feature contemporary choir arrangements and operatic performances while also raising money for two local organisations.

Interim Dean of Blackburn, Canon Andrew Horsfall, said: "Bringing over 100 voices into this incredible space - and doing so in support of both the work of the cathedral and our friends at East Lancashire Hospice - will be deeply moving."

Horsfall said: "For 100 years, Blackburn Cathedral has been a place where people come together in times of celebration, reflection and joy, and music has always been at the heart of that story.

"Every ticket bought directly supports the vital work both organisations carry out across our communities each day."

The "heart of the community" event is part of Blackburn Cathedral's centenary year and is expected to showcase musical talent from across Blackburn and the wider North West.

More than 100 members of Local Vocals, one of the region's fastest-growing choirs, will perform inside the cathedral alongside guest performers from Blackburn's New Road Music Studios.

Choir Leader at Local Vocals, George Harry Jones, said: "It's a real privilege for Local Vocals to be part of '100 Voices for 100 Years' and to bring so many of our singers together in such an incredible venue.

"In fact, we're hoping that instead of 100 voices, there may actually be as many as 200 singers coming together!"

The concert starts at 19:00 BST, with doors opening 30 minutes earlier.

Listen to the best of BBC Radio Lancashire on Sounds and follow BBC Lancashire on Facebook, X and Instagram. You can also send story ideas via Whatsapp to 0808 100 2230.