A ladies choir in Kingston is looking for new members to join its ranks from January. 

Berrylands Belles, which is based in Surbiton, is seeking singers of all ages and abilities to add to its more than 60 current participants. 

The choir rehearses on Monday evenings, and is directed by Rebecca Gresson – a professional singer and vocal coach. 

The choir rehearses on Monday evenings (Imafe supplied)

Gresson, who is also Head of Music at Unicorn School in Kew, said: "We have members from all different backgrounds and ages. 

"It's incredibly inclusive, it has a lovely family feel, it's incredibly friendly. 

"There's a great social element to it but within that we have really high standards for performing and music making, so that's really rewarding. 

"It is a choir for everyone, it doesn't matter about your ability." 

Berrylands Belles was founded by Gresson in 2015, at the request of her fellow Grand Avenue Primary School parents. 

Despite initially only being open to parents of the school, a rapid surge in interest and numbers quickly prompted her to open the group up to the general public. 

The Belles, which prides itself on being not-for-profit and non-audition, hosts around ten performances a year – and, in addition to being regulars at the UK Choir festival, it frequently tours abroad. 

This year the choir travelled to Sweden and the Isle of Wight, and a sojourn to the Czech Republic is being considered for 2026. 

Many of its concerts and performances are for charity, and over the years it has raised thousands of pounds for causes, including dementia research and Parkinson's disease. 

The Belles also recently raised funds for Kingston Churches Action on Homelessness – a cause which is particularly pertinent as winter draws in and the cold begins to bite. 

Gresson added that despite being the cheapest choir in the area, it is "widely considered the best" due to its "exacting standards". 

She said: "We are held in high regard for the quality and professional sound of the choir." 

Anyone interested in joining Berryland's Bellescan contact Rebecca at [email protected].