A former resident of
Poynton travelled all the way from Canada earlier this year to visit
friends in her home town - and to be officially recognised as a
‘Friend’ of St George’s Singers.
Gill Smethurst, who
used to live in Buckingham Road, left Poynton in 1978 to emigrate to
Canada with her husband. She now lives in Squamish, British
Columbia, about 30 miles north of Vancouver.
Although Gill never
sang with St George’s Singers when she lived in Poynton, she is an
avid follower of the Choir’s activities through their website, and
joined the St George’s Singers’ Friends last year. “I just
love Poynton and get very homesick sometimes,” says Gill. “Being
a Friend of St George’s Singers helps me maintain a connection with
the town, and makes me feel that I’m doing something valuable to
support its musical life.”
Gill herself has
always been very musical, and played the classical guitar for many
years until she damaged her hand. She now sings with the Capilano
College Festival Choir and the Cecilia Ensemble Women’s Choir in
North Vancouver, which means a 60-mile round trip every week for
rehearsals!
During her visit to
Poynton, Gill came along to a Tuesday night rehearsal with the
Singers, where she was presented with her official Friends
certificate. She was also invited to join in rehearsals for their
next concert – the first time she’d heard the Singers in nearly
30 years!
St George’s
Singers’ group of ‘Friends’ was formed by families and friends
of Choir members and former Singers, and plays an important part in
the Choir’s social and musical life. For an annual subscription,
supporters can become either Red or Gold Rose Friends, in return for
special events, priority booking and other benefits.
