Axminster and District Choral Society has announced its concert programme for this spring and summer.

There is an exciting line-up of three concerts starting from March 23.

Joy and Peace. which is a celebration of works by Handel, will get underway at 7.30pm.

Among the musical pieces is the joyful and powerful Ode for St. Cecilia's Day and Ode on the Birthday of Queen Anne which applauds the battles' end of the Spanish Succession.

The choir will be accompanied by professional soloists and orchestra, under the leadership of the conductor, Judy Martin.

The society has planned its next event for April 13 at 7pm, hoping to captivate audiences with 'The trumpet shall sound'.

The concert will be performed by Alistair Mackie, former principal trumpeter of the Philharmonia Orchestra.

Andrew Millington, the choir's president, is set to accompany Mr Mackie for a dynamic and enjoyable evening.

For the last event on June 15, members of the choir have personally chosen their favourite anthems and shorter choral pieces for their summer concert.

Pieces such as 'How lovely are thy dwellings' by Brahms and 'Blest pair of sirens' by Parry are slated for the show.

Rehearsals are scheduled to begin on April 23 at 7.30pm at the Minster Church in Axminster.

In order to participate, you need to pay a term fee of £20.

All three concerts will take place at the Minster Church and tickets can be purchased online at www.axminsterchoral.co.uk, from Archway Bookshop, Trinity Square. or directly from choir members.

Admission will also be available on the door.