It’s never too late for Woodleigh Warblers

Members of the Woodleigh Warblers are aged between 65 and 98 and residents of the Woodleigh Christian Care Home on Norfolk Drive.

Starting up in November 2011, they get together every week to rehearse a wide variety of songs including church hymns, Elvis, Fred Astaire and Daydream Believer by The Monkees.

The latest development has been to enter their version of ‘Swing Low, Sweet Chariot’ in a national competition called Care Home Idol.

The performance was recorded on video at the home’s 25th anniversary celebration held at Mansfield Baptist Church.

The choir, which averages 15 in number, is led by a staff nurse, while one resident’s relative plays the piano.

“The choir has really taken off and the enjoyment and determination members have got from it is remarkable,” said Woodleigh’s administration manager Kirsty-May Heath.

“For those taking part, the need for antibiotics for respiratory conditions has more than halved and it has also built a tremendous sense of community spirit.

“When we have held performances at the home, we have had neighbours who have heard the choir through the window coming in to listen.”

The Care Home Idol competition is open to residents, staff, or professionals who come into care homes to entertain.

The closing date for entries is March next year and a winner is expected to be announced in April.

To find out how you can vote and to see the Woodleigh Warblers performing, follow this link: http://www.carehome.co.uk/idol/idol.cfm/id/73