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From
Poynton Scoops
St George's Singers 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.
Gill Smethurst (centre) receiving her Friends’ Certificate from St George’s Singers’ Chair, Anne Francis (right) and Friends’ Coordinator Jean Egerton
Susan Hodgson, Publicity Officer, Tel 0161 338 3013, susan.hodgson@dsl.pipex.com
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