School choirs from across Suffolk are fine-tuning their performances for competition with the Great EACH Choir Off now just a few days away.

Pupils from Finborough School, St Edmund’s Catholic Primary, St Mary’s C of E Academy, Hardwick Primary and Woolpit Primary Academy will vie to be crowned inaugural winners of the charity contest which takes place on Saturday, February 24, at St Edmundsbury Cathedral, in Bury St Edmunds, at 7pm.

They will be judged by a specialist panel including identical twin sopranos Naomi and Hannah Moxon, better known as Classical Reflection from TV talent show The Voice.

Excitement is beginning to build with an audience of at least 150 set to fill the cathedral with proceeds from the event going to East Anglia’s Children’s Hospices.

Helen Lyons, a teacher at Finborough, said: “Taking part in this is giving children the opportunity to be part of a choir that helps grow confidence and self-esteem, as well as to be part of an event that raises funds for a great charity locally. The children will associate the joy of singing with that of helping those children more vulnerable than them.”

Natasha Brame, EACH Suffolk community fundraiser, said: “There’s a great buzz about this competition as it draws closer and the good news for everyone in and around Bury St Edmunds is that there are still tickets remaining. It’s a stunning venue, and there will be a raffle and cake sale in addition to everything else happening, so why not come along and join us for a great night of entertainment?

Tickets are £10 and available online at www.each.org.uk until 3pm on Monday, February 19, or they can be bought on the door.