AFTER an exacting process, including submitting recordings, Bowdon Church Choir has been honoured with a rare invitation to replace the Choir of Canterbury Cathedral for a week in August, while it is away.

Choir director of music, Michael Dow, said of the 'residence': “We are delighted to have been selected – it is an honour. We are also thrilled to receive this independent commendation of the high standard we seek to achieve.

"Our mixed voice choir of over 50 includes over a dozen under 16s and this will be a great experience for them. We have sung at many different cathedrals including Durham, Salisbury and Wells but this will be really special.”

There is a chance to hear the choir perform in concert at its home church in Bowdon before it departs. It will be performing Mozart’s Requiem and other choral favourites on Saturday, June 17 at St Mary’s Church, Bowdon at 7.30pm. Tickets are £8 for adults and £2 for children.

More information is at www.bowdonfestival.co.uk and tickets can purchased on the door.