Appledore Singers raise £850 for Cystic Fibrosis at Christmas concert

The Appledore Singers have raised £850 for the Cystic Fibrosis Trust during their Christmas charity concert at Northam Hall in December 2025.

The concert was extra special this year, marking the choir’s 40th anniversary. 

Based in Appledore, the choir draws members from across North Devon and combines a love of singing with a dedication to fundraising for both local and national charities.

Founded in 1985, the choir now has around 30 members and is a well-established part of the North Devon music scene. 

The group performs at a wide range of events, including weddings, churches, local theatres, clubs, schools, residential homes, and other community venues. 

Over the years, the choir has raised substantial sums for charities and continues to make a significant contribution to community life.

This year, the choir chose the Cystic Fibrosis Trust as their charity. 

The organisation, particularly important to one of the choir members, works to improve care, fund research, and support people and families affected by cystic fibrosis.

The Christmas concert was conducted by Musical Director Pam Beachey, an Appledore native, and accompanied on piano by her husband, Chris Beachey. 

Choir members describe the couple as a constant source of inspiration and leadership.

Tony Nicholls, who has a long-standing relationship with the choir, acted as compère for the concert, guiding the audience through the programme.

The performance featured a mix of traditional congregational Christmas carols, which invited audience participation, alongside around 15 more modern festive pieces. 

Attendees were provided with carol sheets to join in the singing. 

The choir’s resident poet, Ann Irwin, also entertained the crowd with three humorous ditties and limericks, which were well received by both choir members and the audience.

A mid-concert break allowed guests to enjoy refreshments served by the choir, while a raffle, featuring prizes donated by choir members, added to the fundraising total. 

The concert drew a full house, with standing-room-only seating, and was supported by families, friends, and local residents from Appledore, Northam, and Westward Ho!.

Reflecting on the event, members expressed delight at both the turnout and the fundraising success. 

The £850 raised will go directly to the Cystic Fibrosis Trust, helping the organisation continue its work in supporting affected individuals and funding vital research.

Looking ahead, the Appledore Singers are preparing for their summer concert and continue to welcome new members. 

The choir holds taster sessions every Monday evening between 7pm and 7.30pm at Appledore Baptist Church. 

Anyone interested in joining can find more information on the choir’s website, on Facebook, or by calling 07772 210604.

The Appledore Singers’ combination of musical talent, community spirit, and charitable work has made them a well-loved fixture in North Devon. 

Their December 2025 concert celebrated four decades of singing while highlighting the choir’s ongoing commitment to supporting important causes and bringing the local community together.