A Barnsley choir for the elderly has struck a chord with a housebuilder who has rewarded the group with a £1,000 donation.

The Jubilee Singers were awarded the funds from the Persimmon Homes Community Champions scheme to help cover membership fees.

The choir performs around 11 concerts each year and, with the majority of its members being over 70, both training and performances have temporarily ceased during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Iris Higginbottom, from The Jubilee Singers, said: “The choir is excellent for the wellbeing of our members- physically, mentally and socially - and the current pandemic has had a huge effect as almost half of our members live alone.

“All our fundraising activities and concerts have been cancelled so we are very grateful for Persimmon Homes’ support as it will cover the group’s fees and venue hire costs so that we can easily restart once restrictions are eased.”

The match-funding initiative seeks to support grassroots groups and charities in areas where the company is building.

Richard Hosie, director-in-charge for Persimmon Homes South Yorkshire, said: “Covid-19 is having a massive impact on older people, so we are pleased to support an organisation that benefits the wellbeing of the older generation as well as bringing joy to others.”

Persimmon Homes makes two donations of up to £1,000 every month per regional office. The online application form can be found at www.persimmonhomes.com/charity