Three Pubs, Three Choirs, One Destination

Heaton Mersey Village Conservation Group (HMVCG CIC) is delighted to announce a community celebration on, Sunday 26 November, to mark the installation of two sculptures, to launch a sculpture trail which will ultimately encompass the Heaton Mersey historic conservation area, Mersey Vale Nature Park, the embankment woodland walk and the Sidings Community Orchard. The first two sculptures have been commissioned in memory of Vincent D’Olier who died suddenly in November 2019. They follow a HMVCG led community consultation and crowd funding campaign.

Vincent worked tirelessly to promote awareness of the need to address a climate emergency and for the conservation of green space in Heaton Mersey as HMVCG’s secretary for over 20 years. His passing impacted hugely on his many friends and family. Vincent was a huge fan of music and particularly R&B. Hence, the launch event will also include a live music component taking in the Heatons high street, Didsbury Road. This music trail will feature our very own, Do Your Thing choir, led by their very special Choral Director -Liz Taylor and will include a few other very special guests. We are delighted to confirm Craig Anthony Lees will be joining Liz. Craig is an acclaimed Choral Director, Arranger and Vocal Coach. He led the Leeds Contemporary Choir to victory in a televised national choir final on BBC One.

Craig will be bringing a fifty strong, Leeds College of Music Contemporary Pop Choir; winners of the BBC One Pitch Battle series hosted by Mel Giedroyc. He will also be putting the audience through their paces with an opportunity to participate in a vocal workout too. But don’t worry if you don’t want to exercise your vocal chords you can just enjoy the performances. Craig and Liz will be collaborating to deliver a joint performance of the R&B classic Lovely Day as well as delivering their own unique music sets and compositions. There will be 3 separate performances on the day at 3 unique venues. Choirs will be showcasing their talent at the Griffin, the Heaton and Crown with a finale in a torch lit Heaton Mersey Park.

The day has been made possible by generous donations from Stockport’s Ward Flexibility Fund and with support of local residents and businesses. It is being delivered in partnership with local businesses and community volunteers. For more information on event development and how to get involved do contact Jo Ward E: jo@jowardchangemaker.org.uk or M:07708428096