THERE'LL be a new face on the rostrum when Pershore Choral Society next perform in the town abbey.

The man with the baton will be new musical director Andrew Wilson, who has taken over from Michael Anderson following his retirement last season after 18 years with the society.

"Andrew already has a distinguished musical career and we were very lucky to get him," said society chairman John Gosney.

"The choir is now in its 51st year with more than 130 singers and they are all enjoying the rigours and challenges offered by the new conductor. Andrew's first concert should be a night to remember."

An avid Leeds United fan and keen golfer, Andrew Wilson, aged 31 has already had his compositions performed on Classic FM.

He is director of music at Worcester Royal Grammar School and organist and director of music at Malvern Priory.

He performs regularly as an organ recitalist and is accompanist to London University Chamber Choir with whom he has made a number of recordings.

In the abbey on November 25, at 7.30pm, Andrew will conduct the West Midlands Sinfonia, choir and soloists.

The programme includes works by Handel, Zadok the Priest, The King Shall Rejoice and Laudate Pueri Dominium, and Vivaldi's Gloria.

Performing Bach's Violin Concerto will be Anna Smith, a member of the Youth Orchestra of Great Britain.

Tickets are available from members of the society, A La Carte, Royal Arcade, Pershore, or ticket secretary Carole Poyser on 0708 887715 and cost from £8 to £10, children and students half price.