MANY enjoyed the first event of this year's Lydney Festival, a concert by the Stuart Singers of Minchinhampton at St Mary's Church on Saturday.

Under music director Gerry Palmer the singersa varied programme which included pieces from Lennon and McCartney, Mozart, Leonard Cohen, Cole Porter and Eric Clapton.

Gerry Palmer contributed to the evening's enjoyment by his witty introductions, and by inviting audience participation, particularly in the song Down by the Riverside.

The penultimate item was 'Bottle Lament', arranged by accompanist Barrie Cooper, very popular with the choir and its audiences over the years.

The very enjoyable evening raised welcome funds for the Friends of Lydney Hospital.