A NEWLY-formed York choir has been backed by a University of York-based charity to ensure its first year in existence.

York Youth Chorus has been given funding to cover expenses for the first year, which adds up to about £1,500, from York Active Community Fund.

The fund supports organisations which make a difference to local communities, and York Youth Chorus is the first external project it has supported.

Choir secretary Jo Hodges, said: "It is a fantastic boost to have all these expenses met in one go. It means we won't be charging any subscriptions - so we really will be open to the whole community.

"It costs more than you'd think to run a choir, sheet music is very expensive.

"And we also have to pay for uniforms, advertising and publicity, office expenses, renting our rehearsal venue, concert support, licensing fees, and so on."

The choir will be launched on Tuesday with rehearsals taking place at St George's Methodist Church Hall, Millfield Lane, Tang Hall.

Members from eight to 18-years-old are welcome to join. The chorus will be divided into a children's choir for eight to 13-year-olds, and a youth choir for 13 to 18-year-olds.

The musical director, Toby Wardman, said: "We have had a fair amount on interest particularly from the younger end.

"We are keen to get people from all age ranges and would like to get older kids."

The choir will be performing a range of different musical styles from show tunes and pop songs to church music.

Toby said: "People do enjoy it and there is social aspect to it. If you can get children at the age when they are interested you can keep their interest."

For information on joining the choir contact Jo Hodges on 01904 624645, or visit the choir's website, www.yorkyouthchorus.org.uk

Updated: 09:44 Friday, January 17, 2003