THE Mozart Requiem 40th anniversary concert presented by the Langcliffe Singers, under the direction of Darren Everhart, in Giggleswick School Chapel was a remarkable event.

It's capacity of just under 200 people was completely sold out a day before; and despite notices going out from the choir's own publicity machine, and The Richard Whiteley Theatre Box Office, people were still queuing at the door, in hope of buying a seat, just before the concert began.

Unused tickets were requested for re-sale and as many as possible of those waiting were admitted - as safety rules allowed.

While being a marvellous indicator of the choir's popularity, it leaves a question mark over seating capacity for future events. And perhaps even a question for Settle about the need to develop its venues.

Meanwhile the stunning venue of the Giggleswick Chapel, with its dome of painted angels - is a favourite with audiences and choir. Talks are ongoing about events in 2024.

To mark the first of the concerts celebrating this year's 40th anniversary, special guests included previous musical directors, Settle ward councillor for North Yorkshire Council, David Staveley and, of course, the eminent international opera star and founder of Langcliffe Singers - Valerie Baulard.

Valerie was accompanied by her husband, Howard Rogerson - a one time conductor of Settle Orchestra - with whom the choir had collaborated in earlier days to perform gala concerts which are among Val's most 'treasured memories'. At the end of last month's Giggleswick Chapel concert there was a special presentation of flowers to Valerie.

A further special presentation is planned for later in the year at the anniversary's main event in Settle in November at which an address by Valerie is planned.

The collaboration between Langcliffe Singers and Settle Orchestra continues later this year with major concerts in Skipton and Settle when the Brahms Requiem will be performed.

Other events coming up are the summer concert on Saturday, July 1 when 'Songs for a summer evening' will be performed in St John's Hall, Settle. The concert will feature the choir plus it's own soloists.

The choir will perform seasonal favourites such as 'Sumer is icumen in' and perennials such as 'Mystical Songs' by Vaughan Williams.

The final title of the concert will be decided by a poll of members, as is tradition.

Sir Thomas Allen CBE, president of Langcliffe Singers, in recognition of the 40th anniversary said news of the choir's activities was very reassuring. "I wish you well, now and with everything else you may plan through the years ahead," he told the choir.