Sheffield Teachers' Choir was founded in 1968, back when the Vietnam war was still raging and the last steam train was puffing its way round Britain. Now, 40 years on, the Choir is set to host a series of concerts throughout this year to celebrate the milestone.

The Choir was established by Dr David Clover, music advisor for Sheffield Education Department, to sing everything from show tunes to Christmas carols, sacred music and pop songs.

Public concerts happen at the end of every school term.

"It's not actually the case that you have to be a teacher to join the choir," explained current member Ralph Green, aged 60, a retired music teacher who joined in 1974 and was appointed as conductor in 1986.

"Anyone can become a member. You don't even need to know how to read music, all you need is a love of singing."

During its 40-year lifespan the Choir has seen three conductors come and go and has been on tours to Germany and Dublin.

"We all get on extremely well and have great fun singing together," said Mr Green

"Although our members are all aged between 50 and 80, we are all young at heart and always on the lookout for new members."

The original Choir was 120 members strong and rehearsed at the former education offices at Sheffield University.

But as the pressures of teaching have grown over the years, the club has seen its membership drop to 46 and the rehearsal venue move. The Choir now practise every Thursday at All Saints School on Granville Road. For full details of concerts and celebrations, call 0113 256 5320.

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