TOPPING most people's new year resolution list has to be to live healthier and get fitter as we try to right the excesses of the festive period. Joining the gym may seem the obvious choice, but how many of us stop to consider joining a choir?

Singing is the one thing in life where feeling better is pretty much guaranteed and it would seem that community choirs are fast becoming the new 'place to hang out' for those wanting to reignite that feel-good factor and reap the health benefits associated with singing.

Beth Dunn, director and founder of the 'Got 2 Sing' community choirs - which includes a weekly choir at Hereford, has seen increased interest in both her youth and adult choirs in the last 12 months. She commented, "Singing has a big impact on our choir members by fortifying their health and I see people's confidence and self-esteem grow enormously."

Got 2 Sing choir member Vicki Bennett believes singing has even helped her quit smoking: "Thanks to singing - and the desire to be much better at it - I have finally managed to quit cigarettes. And I already feel better and I can also already feel my lungs and breathing improving too."

As for the social benefits Beth believes that singing can support a sense of being part of society and increase your self-esteem, and added "Joining a choir helps you to meet more people and by bringing people together it encourages a sense of community and creates a forum for fun and laughter. What could be better?"

So when you're reviewing your new year resolutions, instead of contemplating a gym membership, perhaps it's time you explored how singing can enrich your life with an added zest instead. You can find them at The Kindle Centre (near Asda) every Wednesday evening from 7.30pm to 9pm.