A CHOIR which sings in South Harting raised more than £1,800 for a charity providing support and help for young people contemplating suicide.

The evening with A Choir named Dave, in the village hall was held in aid of the charity Papyrus UK, and ended with a powerful rendition of the South African anti-apartheid protest song Weeping.

Choir spokesman Anne Connor said: “The song is now the national anthem of South Africa, and there was standing room only in the hall to hear the choir entertain with a melody of well-known songs.”

Aside from the singing, the highlight of the evening was a raffle with a top prize of a gold, diamond and ruby necklace and earring set, donated by Duncan Eves Jewellers, Petersfield, and won by Michele Johnson.

The audience also heard a poem written by a 12-year-old boy about his friend who committed suicide, which “brought tears to the eyes,” said choir leader Ella de Jongh, who added: “We are so grateful to our wonderful audience for their amazing support and generosity.”

The community choir comprises people of all ages and singing abilities, and meets in the Congregational Church Hall, South Harting, and new members of all singing abilities are welcome.

E-mail Ella at [email protected], for details, or call her on 01730 825545. For details about Papyrus UK visit www.papyrus-uk.org