A SINGING group is to enjoy a busman's holiday at one of England's famous cathedrals.

And Bury Parish Church's choir is the envy of churches in Manchester after being invited to sing the services for a week at Worcester Cathedral.

The 40-strong choir will deputise for the Cathedral's own choir when it goes on holiday...in August, 2004.

The Bury choir now has two years to raise the necessary funds to pay the travel and accommodation fees during their stay.

Mr David Kemp, Master of the Choristers at Bury Parish Church, said: "It is an honour to be asked to deputise for cathedral choirs, particularly 'premier league' cathedrals such as Worcester which has a fine musical tradition as well as being a major part of the nation's history.

"This has been organised two years in advance as it will take a long time to raise the money to help towards the cost of accommodation and travel. We would love to hear from any local companies who would like to sponsor us."

As well as the regular Sunday services at Bury, the church choir is in demand to perform at a number of civic and charity events throughout the year.

The choir comprises adults and children alike and voice trials will be held in September for boys and girls under the age of ten. A number of adult vacancies are also available.

Any individual or company interested in sponsoring the choir or those wanting to arrange a voice trial, should contact Mr Kemp on 0161 797 9926.