The Rushmoor Male Voice Choir is rebranding as the Hampshire and Surrey Hills Men’s Choir and is launching a recruitment drive.

Created in 1960 by Aldershot’s Geoff Waller, the choir was nicknamed The Odd Fellows for having 'an odd fellow from here and an odd fellow from there'.

First created for the purpose of a single event, the choir has continued to perform and raise money for good causes over the last 64 years.

Early on, the ensemble was occasionally renamed to reflect their activities, most latterly known as the Rushmoor Male Voice Choir or the Rushmoor Odd Fellows Male Voice Choir.

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Basingstoke Gazette: Hampshire and Surrey Hills Men’s Choir in Concert, February 2024Currently, it draws members from throughout Surrey and Hampshire. To acknowledge this broader reach, the choir decided to revamp its moniker.

Choir chairman Peter Viveash said: "We are welcoming new members from a wider area now, and are being invited to perform outside the Rushmoor district so we felt that should be reflected in our name.

"In addition, the Odd Fellows nickname was a bit confusing for anyone who didn’t know our history.

“What hasn’t changed though is the ethos of the choir that has been with us since 1960. It is the club-like atmosphere of men having fun singing well and raising money for local charities."

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Now, wishing to attract prospective singers, the choir are hosting a complimentary 'Pie and a Pint and a Song' event.

Taking place on Monday, April 29 at Camberley Heath Golf Club, the evening invites men from all walks of life to try their hand at singing.

Directed by musical director, Philip Viveash-Brainch, the evening promises a relaxed atmosphere with a short singing session, free nibbles, and a drink for all attendees.

No auditions or music reading skills are required.

The choir rehearses every Monday at North Camp Methodist Church Hall in Farnborough from 7.30pm, and welcomes visitors.

More information on the taste session, rehearsals, and all choir-related queries can be found at: hampshireandsurreyhillsmenschoir.org.uk.