THE Clackmannanshire Choral Society has bid a fond farewell to its long-serving conductor.

Sandy Sinclair had an evening in his honour on Friday, September 28, at The Royal Oak which included a presentation followed by a night of entertainment.

The stalwart retired from the society after 20 years of conducting and will now focus on a new venture while spending more time with his family.

Vivien Fairchild, who has just been elected president of the society, told the Advertiser that the whole group had a wonderful evening.

She said: "The night was brilliant. Sandy arrived in his full kilt regalia which really set the tone; that was a lovely surprise.

"A choir member who knew Sandy really well then gave an opening speech about how fantastic he has been as a conductor and as a great leader.

"There was then a presentation of a card and a £200 cheque which we had raised for him in appreciation.

"Sandy gave a speech of thanks before we moved on to a buffet, which I would fully recommend."

Vivien said the night then turned into a proper celebration as members took turns to entertain Sandy through singing and playing various instruments such as the trumpet and flugelhorn.

The whole choir then sang a moving rendition of one of Sandy's favourite songs, Homeward Bound.

Although he is leaving the society, Sandy isn't finished quite yet, according to the new president.

Vivien added: "He can't hang up the baton completely just yet. He has set up a concert party which I am a going to be a part of and that will be great. The whole choir is a lot to deal with but he loves his music."

Sandy's wife, a soprano singer herself, was also presented with a floral display on the evening which Vivien described as "lovely, but emotional".

Mike Nolan will now take over the choir after holding the role of accompanist since 2008, while Lawrence Wright will assume Mike's old job.

The group also stressed that new members are always welcome and that anyone can join without any "scary auditions".

The society practice at 7pm every Monday at St Mungo's Parish Church Hall, Alloa. They are currently rehearsing for their Christmas show.

For more, visit clackschoral.webs.com or contact the choir secretary Bet Ure on 01259 218 432.