LOCAL women’s voice choir Sally’s Army is making final preparations for a fund-raising concert, welcoming people to Wharfedale who are arriving here from Ukraine.

The concert, which is at the Bridge Church Hall in Otley, 7.30pm on Saturday 9th June, will showcase talented young local singers Gabriel Jones and Sylvia Cullen alongside the choir, backed by Sally’s Army’s house band featuring Otley musicians Jayne and Tim Leadbeater.

Sally Egan, the choir’s Musical Director, said: "I am in awe of, but not surprised by, the compassion and support being shown by people in Wharfedale to those arriving here from Ukraine. We can’t all have people to stay in our homes, but there are other ways to show support. This concert is our way of saying, ‘You are welcome here.’ We have put together an uplifting programme of Songs from the Shows, which includes ‘Getting to Know You’ from The King and I and a beautiful Welcome Song, written by and with people who have experienced homelessness. Suggested donations on the door, all of which will go to local charities supporting people from Ukraine, are £10 full price and £5 concessions, with free admission for children." The concert is supported by Otley Rotary Club.