THE massed voices of 110 supporters of Haslemere Musical Society’s ‘Come and Sing’ event raised the rafters of St Christopher’s Church, in Wey Hill, on Saturday.

The popular annual event kicked off at 2pm with afternoon rehearsals interspersed with tea and cakes baked by society members, and culminated at 6pm with a full-blown performance of Handel’s Messiah accompanied by the Haslemere Musical Society (HMS) Orchestra.

“It was a terrific turnout and a truly joyous occasion,” said HMS marketing director Joe Macdonald.

“A lot of people saw our letter about it in The Herald and signed up. They came from all over the region.

“The big bonus about our event is that we have a 123-strong orchestra instead of just piano accompaniment, which is what happens elsewhere, and the orchestra is rich in trumpets and timpani.

“HMS members spent a week baking cakes for the two tea breaks in the afternoon. We were thrilled so many people came.

“It’s a wonderful community event and the final collection raised £410 for two charities, one to help young people trying to get into the world of music and the other in aid of Syrian war children.”