This is a magnificent work, but hugely challenging with extremely complicated tempi.

The Society is very fortunate to have John Langridge guiding so patiently through this work and to have Duncan Reid at the piano. Between them, with great good humour, members are encouraged and uplifted when they begin to think they'll never crack it!

Typical is a quiet note on the piano after a struggle to hit a high note. That's Duncan telling what it should have been! Followed by John's 'Fingers Duncan!'

The choir is also working hard raising the money to pay for the orchestra. An extra rehearsal is needed as they are playing Vaughan William's Overture - The Wasp.

An extra rehearsal costs more money and so the fund raising goes up a notch. Cakes are baked, plants grown, books and bric-a brac brought each week and somehow a considerable amount is raised to help pay for the concert.

At the same time the Society is collecting from family and friends and local businesses to raise £1,000 for the RNLI and the training of another Hastings lifeboat crew member.

The Society will be paying a visit to the lifeboat station next month and following it with a fish and chip lunch, so it is not all hard work.

Although it is so very difficult, the music is truly beautiful and we work at it with the confidence that it will be alright on the night - we hope!

Parking is very difficult around London Road and Christ Church with only on-street parking available.

It is strongly advised to make use of our free coach to the concert, which will leave the Market car park, Battle, at 6.30pm and will return there afterwards. Seats must be reserved which can be done by phoning 01424 774917.

Tickets are £10 each with £1 going to the RNLI. They are available from Raggs Boutique, 20 High Street, Battle, by phoning 01424 870862 or 424339 and will be on sale at the door on the night.