BREAKING a world record with a combined age of 1,180 is no mean feat – but one group of singers at a care home is proving anything is possible.

Residents at St John’s House, at Kirk Hammerton, have secured themselves a place in the Guinness Book of Records as the oldest choir in the world.

The 12 women and one man have an average age of 91 but have not let that stop them from pursuing their aim of getting in to the record books.

Former RAF leading aircraftman 93-year-old Syd Shorter, who is the only man in the choir, said: “I’ve been jogged into this at the end of my life.

“I’d never have even considered singing before now.

“I feel totally enhanced by it.”

The group decided to form the choir last year as a natural progression from singing in the house lounge. They have since recorded their first CD, which features eight pf their songs.

Not only are the residents enjoying their newfound hobby, but staff at the home have seen other benefits as well.

Managing director Lou Squires said: “There are so many positive effects that this singing community has had on us all St John’s.

“I get great reports about how it has had such a positive impact on the lives of our residents.

“I’m sure that it has contributed to our reduced number of falls and people’s appetites and general health have improved.”

Since forming, the group have performed at a community concert and an open-air 1940s-style concert.

St John’s House manager Andrea Marks said: “We are absolutely delighted to witness the many positive benefits that singing is bringing to our residents.

“Our weekly choir practices, public performances and now this latest accolade have given them a real sense of purpose and well being. We are so proud of them.”