Brighton Gay Men’s Chorus Gains New Sponsor

An up and coming East Sussex choir has received a new sponsor – The Co-operative Funeralcare.

The UK’s largest funeral director has struck a deal with Brighton Gay Men’s Chorus, which was first established in January 2005 when a small group of friends who loved singing decided it was time Brighton had a gay male choir.

The Chorus, which currently has around 85 members, is the largest gay chorus outside London and membership is open to anyone who identifies themselves as a gay or gay-friendly man.

Funeralcare’s sponsorship agreement will allow the choir to flourish in its core objectives, expand its presence and impact within Brighton and Hove, as well as allowing it to participate in exciting projects further afield in 2014.

Paul Charlton, Chairman for Brighton Gay Men’s Chorus, said:

“Our Trustees are extremely grateful for The Co-operative Funeralcare’s generous support. The Chorus strongly identifies with the Co-operative’s guiding values of self-help, democracy, equality and solidarity. In particular, we believe our objectives to be closely aligned with one of the Co-operative’s key focal areas – keeping communities thriving.”

Sam Kershaw, Operations Director – South, The Co-operative Funeralcare, said:

“We are delighted to be the main sponsor for the Brighton Gay Men’s Chorus. Music of all types is synonymous with funerals and can help to reflect a person’s life.”

“In addition, The Co-operative is a keen supporter of the Lesbian Gay Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) community, being ranked third in Stonewall’s Workplace Equality Index of the top 100 Nationwide Employers. This year we have supported a number of LGBT Pride events including Brighton, Manchester, Glasgow and Cardiff,” he continued.

Brighton Gay Men’s Chorus, which is a registered charity, operates an 11-month calendar, comprised of three seasons, each of which culminates in a one or two night show.

This year’s winter season, which finishes with its Christmas extravaganza on 7 December at The Brighton Dome promises to bring the festive spirit with guest star Claire Sweeney in its show, Pull A Cracker. In previous years the choir has worked with June Brown, Zoe Lyons and Rosie Ashe. For more information about the Chorus, including how to buy tickets, visit www.brightongmc.org

ENDS