Dudley's annual Remembrance Concert could be a thing of the past unless volunteers urgently come forward to help arrange the much respected November event.

At a recent choir practice of the 60 strong Gentleman Songsters Male Voice Choir a cheque for £2400 was handed over to Chair of Dudley Royal British Legion by Malcolm Davies, who made an emotional plea for the event to continue.

The donation was the result of proceeds from last years event, which was supported by students from Dudley College in a wonderful tribute commemorating 100 years since the cessation of hostilities of World War One.

The presentation was performed by present choir Chairman, Phil Holden, and retiring Chairman, Pete Hawthorne CBE. Also present were representatives from Dudley College and Standard Bearers from the RBL alongside the choir's oldest member and Normandy Veteran Albert Evans. Choir Ambassador and Dudley Councillor, Steve Waltho, said:

"The Gentleman Songsters are a wonderful institution that give so much pleasure to so many through our concerts staged throughout the year. We also raise a lot of money for charities and naturally the Royal British Legion benefit from the annual Remembrance Concert.

“The simple but sad problem is that, in recent years,  the choir has gone from doing what they should do - being the central performing artists - to taking on an ever increasing role in this big events organisation.

Our Council can only give limited support and the British Legion itself can offer no manpower resource. Unless volunteers urgently come forward we are faced with the sad situation that the event may not go ahead this year which would be a tragic loss".

The plea for volunteers was also echoed by former Songster and Master of Ceremonies, Ian Rawlings, and former Mayor, Councillor Dave Tyler, who has a deep interest in our local Armed Forces.

If anyone or any organisation can help then please contact either Councillor Waltho on 07703 308463 or Councillor Tyler on 07759 209962.