Singers sought! Basses from Blackheath Way, baritones from Brockhill Road, tenors from The Dingle. As the augmented church choir practices for the annual Carols By Candlelight service at St James's a week on Sunday (December 21), an appeal has gone out for anyone, especially men, who would like to swell the choir for this special community occasion. The next rehearsal (in the church) will be tomorrow (Dec 12) from 7.30pm to 9.15pm, with another at the same time next Friday, December 19, plus a final session on the afternoon of the December 21 between 2pm and 3.30 pm. Potential Pavarottis and budding Bryn Terfels, come forth, and get in touch with organist and choirmaster John Raine on 01684 565052. West Malvern needs you!

This Sunday, December 14, at 10.30am, there will be a family service in church with St James's Primary School, followed by a Christmas fair at the school. And the following day, Monday, December 15, the Leapfrogs Playgroup will be presenting their nativity play in church at 11am

Festive-season music of a former age will feature at the Christmas concert to be given by local singers Vital Spark in the village hall next Wednesday, December 17, starting at 8pm.

The 20-strong group of singers, accompanied by instruments as varied as a serpent, clarinets and fiddles, will recreate the sounds of carols and other Christmas music which might have been heard in country churches in the late 18th and early 19th Centuries, before every church had its organ or harmonium. Mulled wine and mince pies will be served, and admission charges (in aid of hall funds) will be £3 adults (£2 concessions).

Christmas parties and events are already in full swing, but it will be another three weeks before the last of them, dubbed A Belated Christmas Party, takes place at the Royal British Legion on Sunday, January 4. All senior citizens in West Malvern are invited.

There will be free food and entertainment, and free lifts to and the party for anyone who needs them - contact the organisers Richard (893951) or Colin Hammond (573801). They emphasise that you don't have to be a member of the British Legion to qualify.