Choir raises funds for the Prostate Project

October 3, 2022 – At their weekly rehearsal the Rushmoor ‘Odd Fellows’ Male Voice Choir presented a cheque to the Prostate Project representing the proceeds of their summer concert. The contribution will go toward the launch of a mobile testing unit aimed at spotting Prostate cancer sufferers early.

Peter Viveash, Chairman of The Rushmoor ‘Odd Fellows’ Male Voice Choir, presented Alf Turner of the Prostate Project with a cheque for £500 raised at a concert held in June at High Cross Church in Camberley. The choir, under the baton of Musical Director Stephen Petch and accompanied by Margery Wakefield, entertained the audience with a wide repertoire from classic choral numbers through to popular hits and were supported by special guest, local mezzo-soprano Kate Lowe.

Presenting the donation Peter Viveash commented “As a we are a group of men, we are only too aware of the importance of spotting and tackling Prostate cancer early. We are delighted to be able to donate our efforts in support of such a vital cause and look forward to being early users of the service.”

Alf Turner, Chair of the Prostate Project, said “We are really grateful to the choir for their donation from their recent concert in Camberley. This will go towards our ManVan Project, a mobile PSA blood testing unit, which we are putting on the road in conjunction with the NHS. This will improve early diagnosis of prostate cancer which is the no 1 cancer in men. We are now over 70% towards our funding target of £200K so we have ordered the van which will go on the road locally next year.”

The choir are now in rehearsal for concerts at St Michael the Archangel in Aldershot on 22nd October and their gala Christmas concert on 9th December at Farnham Maltings with guests, the St. Lawrence Chobham Handbell Ringers, providing that festive touch. This will be an extra special event as it marks the last concert that MD Stephen Petch will wield his baton in front of the Odd Fellows before retiring from the choir.