St John's Church, Newton Reigny

'It's now or never!' It was tempting to smile and think 'well, yes...' about the opening number at the concert in aid of church funds, sung by 30 men among whom was a generous share of bald or grey heads. However, we were very soon reminded that, under the direction of Michael Deakin, they can rival any Welsh choir in the hymn Calon Lan or swing along vigorously in Give Me That Old Time Religion with its jaunty accompaniment, so ably played by accompanist Lorraine Gash.

The unaccompanied All in the April evening felt less secure but At the Lamb's High Feast We Sing, a unison setting by former Carlisle Cathedral organist Dr F Wadely, was very pleasing. The second half of the evening brought changes of mood with the tongue-twisting Rhythm of Life and an hilarious Old McDonald, while Yesterday proved the choir's romantic side.

Joe Davies, Penrith sixth former and pupil of cellist Emma Farrend at the Junior Royal Northern College of Music, was guest artiste, accompanied on piano by Sarah Massey. He showed a high level of musicianship in two Vivaldi sonatas, demonstrating confident tone and flowing lines as well as rhythmic, accurate runs and decorations. Frank Bridge's Spring Song was full of expressive phrasing.