Highcliffe choir Diamond Divas celebrate £50,000 for Macmillan palliative care unit at Christchurch hospital

A HIGHCLIFFE fundraising choir which last year faced an uncertain future is now celebrating reaching the £50,000 milestone in aid of cancer care at Christchurch hospital.

The Diamond Divas chose to support the Macmillan Unit at the hospital in Fairmile Road around 10 years ago and since then each performance has generated funds for the organisation.

Choir co-ordinator Josie Spicer said: “Reaching £50,000 was a very proud moment for us all.

“Not least because during the last few years, due to Covid, we were unable to perform, but carried on raising money by selling jams, pickles, plants and books at the front gates of various members’ homes and with the ongoing support of other local groups.”

To mark the milestone the group held a celebratory coffee morning in the garden of one of the choir members.

Joise added: “More than 80 choir members past and present, our families, friends and supporters helped us make the event a great success, raising a total of £1,385 in just two hours.

“The cake stall sold out and the plants, books and craft stalls sold well. The raffle raised £525.

“Many thanks to the many local businesses who supplied us with very generous prizes.

This time last year the future of the group was uncertain as they desperately sought a pianist after musical director Jan Leonard moved out of the area.

Josie said: “We were so afraid that the choir would have to fold.

“But along came local pianist Terry Hayden who was kindly prepared to give up his time to help us and we haven’t looked back.”

The Macmillan Unit provides specialist palliative care for around 1,600 people each year and is supported by the Macmillan Caring Locally charity.

The group presented a cheque to trust secretary Neal Williams, who said: “It’s difficult to put into words the appreciation we feel for the Diamond Divas.

“They have been by our side through thick and thin for a decade, continually giving their time, energy and beautiful voices to help the unit.

“Their support is something we truly treasure.”

Those interested in joining the group or to book a performance can call 01425 280367 or 01425 270864.