This second phase of work is being funded by Northumberland FISHNETS (Fitness, Involvement, Safety and Health Networks), and the project is presented in association with The Sage Gateshead which means there are special events within the building that groups are invited to.

Many believe that regular singing can help promote a healthy lifestyle. Singers can benefit from improved breathing, stronger core muscles, better concentration, memory and energy levels – as well as the enjoyment that come from being part of a social group.

This is especially true of older singers, who often find that they make a new circle of close friends through their singing.

One Morpeth singer said: "The session is very good for memory and my concentration levels have improved."

Another said: "I feel happy and energised after a session."

Silver Singing groups have already been established in Morpeth and Bedlington.

Judith and Joe Hewison from Bedlington say that joining the group 'has given us a true feeling of well-being and introduced us to a broad spectrum of new friends.

It now forms an enjoyable and established part of our weekly agenda. We strongly recommend joining a choir'.

Both groups meet on Thursdays; Silver Morpeth is at the St James Community Centre, Wellway, from 10.30am to noon and Silver Bedlington is at Bedlington Community Centre from 1.15pm 2.45pm.

The cost is £2 per week and both groups are led by Kat Davidson, from The Sage Gateshead Silver Programme: "Why not come along and have a go? We're warm and welcoming and good for you!"

The next 12 months will see groups starting in Alnwick, Prudhoe and Blyth Valley.

Each project will be launched with a free concert (including refreshments) by The Silver Threads – The Sage Gateshead's performance choir for over 50s, directed by Gilly Love.

This will be followed by a short course of group singing sessions open to all singers over 50.

Silver Alnwick, will launch on Wednesday, May 21, at 1pm with a concert at Alnwick Playhouse, followed by a six week course at Lindisfarne Adult Learning Centre.

The course starts on Friday, June 6, from 1.15pm to 2.45pm, costs £2 per session, and will be led by Anne Suggate, an experienced vocal leader, who will encourage the group to enjoy a wide range of songs.

If you would be interested in joining any of these groups please phone Sheila Taylor on (01665) 606280 or e-mail info@20000voices.org for more information.

20,000 Voices develops and supports singing across Northumberland and the North East.

For more information about 20,000 Voices, visit the website at www.20000voices.org