IT’S the end of an era for a popular Powys singing group after the duo that have led them for well over a decade stepped down this month.

Christine 'Chris' Clarke has headed the group since its inception 14 years ago, while accompanist Bev Nethercoat has been involved with the group for the last 12 years.

The duo announced earlier this year that they would be retiring from the Bracken Trust Singers in the summer.

In August the singers celebrated and paid tribute to both at a farewell buffet held at the Lakeside Boathouse restaurant in Llandrindod Wells. After the meal presentation baskets of flowers were made to Chris and Bev by members Sandra Gayther and Vera Buckler, on behalf of the group.

Then, Bracken Trust trustee and singers’ member Barry Hicks summed up the whole ethos of the Bracken Trust Singers and the memories the group have made together. He ended by thanking everyone, especially Chris and Bev, for their tremendous contribution to the singers’ undoubted success.

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It seemed appropriate, given they have performed a high number of concerts at Crosfield House, that their final concert under the guidance of Chris and Bev was at the Rhayader care home, at its summer fayre, on August 17. 

The show brought the curtain down on a memorable era which has included so many concerts, performances and many Tuesday practices, which befits a charity and therapy singing group.

The group’s notable concerts of 2024 have included a service of thanksgiving for volunteers in the local community, organised by the then High Sheriff of Powys, Reg Cawthorne, and Marcia Morgan, mayor of Llandrindod Wells, at Holy Trinity Church in March.

Reg, who is chairman of the Bracken Trust, presented both Chris and Bev with High Sheriff Awards last year, in recognition of their work within the local community.

During an April gig at Crosfield House, some residents joined in the community singing and dancing, with one lady even coming forward to sing at the front with Chris.

Chris and Bev with their High Sheriff Awards, presented last year by Bracken Trust chair and then High Sheriff of Powys, Reg Cawthorne, in recognition of their work within the local community. Chris and Bev with their High Sheriff Awards, presented last year by Bracken Trust chair and then High Sheriff of Powys, Reg Cawthorne, in recognition of their work within the local community. (Image: Bracken Trust Singers)

In June, the singers performed to an almost full house at Llanyre Village Hall. The proceeds from ticket sales, raffle and donations were in aid of the upkeep of the hall and as a thank you to the managers for their unerring support of the singers.

A total of £540 was presented by group member Jan Goodwin and leader Chris to Granville Gelder and Elwyn Evans, representing the church hall.

The Bracken Trust Singers will continue to meet each Tuesday morning at Llanyre Church Hall under the new leadership of Vera.

New members are welcome and should contact the Bracken Trust on 01597 823646 for more information.