A Wymondham singing group is looking for new members as it prepares for a big year.

Encore has become an important part of the town's entertainment scene with summer concerts in the town's abbey, as well as annual revues and seasonal Christmas concerts at Central Hall.

Now a new musical director is taking over the 30 strong group, and an appeal is being made for more members to join their 'inexpensive local hobby'.

Secretary Kath Terry said: 'Encore is currently recruiting singers and would welcome new members to our Friday night rehearsals. Members enjoy many social events in addition to singing music from stage and screen.'

At the end of last year the group's musical director Katie Vaughan retired after four years. Paul Winter, who has been accompanying the singers for the past year, has taken over the role.

Chairman Wendy Thrower said: 'Katie has impressed the members and their audiences with her innovative ideas and expertise and we will be sorry to see her go. We will be welcoming Paul as our new musical director. He has new ideas for performances and many new songs to add to our already substantial repertoire.'

The group, which includes basses, tenors, altos and sopranos, is hoping for a successful 2012 with its usual Wymondham performances, as well as those in other venues throughout the county.

The singing group's performances often help to raise money for a number of charities and its recent Christmas concert at Central Hall raised funds for East Anglian Air Ambulance.

Mrs Thrower said: 'As the national economy continues to struggle, people seem to be looking increasingly towards easily-accessed entertainment at local prices and with little travel involved.

'They also appreciate the warm personal welcome groups like Encore give to their audiences.'

To join contact Kath Terry on 01953 604881 and for more information visit www.snos.org.uk

Is your club holding a big event this year? Contact David Freezer on 01603 772418 or you can email him at david.freezer@archant.co.uk