THE Alcester Male Voice Choir has been forced to change the venue for its annual concert due to the impending closure of the Stratford Arthouse.

The choir was due to play at the venue on May 12 but the auditorium will close on May 4 due to the Stratford Town Trust deciding to discontinue its funding.

Judith Land BEM, the choirs founder and director of music, said: “We were devastated when we heard that the Arthouse was closing, just one week before our concert was due to take place.

“The venue booking had been made just under 12 months ago, tickets, posters and booking forms all printed and over half the tickets sold.

“Our Annual Concert is the highlight of the choir’s year and the only event we run for our own funds.

“So after a frantic few days I am delighted to announce that after contacting the Grieg Hall in Alcester they have very kindly agreed to let us hold the concert there, in the Greig Leisure Centre, and on the same day.

“I am very relieved and grateful to the Greig Management for agreeing to help us.

“I would like to reassure those who have already purchased their concert tickets that those tickets are still valid for the new venue so there will be no replacement tickets issued, just bring the existing tickets along on the night and they will be able to come in and enjoy the concert."

This will be the 44th Annual Concert being staged by the popular 80-strong choir.

Tickets are £15 each and available by calling the choirs booking office on 07752 563068.