Decades of pop hits ring through the rafters as voices unite for a cause

23 Dec 2025, 14:30 by Lewis Clarke · DevonLive

More than 200 singers from Rock Choir East Devon filled St David’s Church in Exeter with music and festive cheer for the choir’s inaugural fundraising ‘Big Sing’.

Members from the Broadclyst, Exeter, Exmouth and Honiton groups joined forces to perform 14 uplifting songs from their recent repertoire. The setlist spanned decades and genres, featuring Erasure’s A Little Respect, Earth, Wind & Fire’s September, Blondie’s Call Me, and seasonal classics including Shakin’ Stevens’ Merry Christmas Everyone and Wizzard’s I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday.

The feel-good afternoon wasn’t just about the music. Thanks to a raffle, home-baked cakes, coffees and generous donations, the choir raised over £1,000 for local CIC Inclusive Exeter. The organisation works to support individuals and groups from ethnically diverse communities, promoting connection, understanding and positive representation across the city.

Rock Choir East Devon Leader, Carey Camel, said: “At the heart of it, the aims of Inclusive Exeter mirror our own, as Rock Choir is open to all.

“A huge thank you to all my choir members who came along, donated raffle prizes and supported what I hope will become an annual event. I know everyone enjoyed the chance to sing together – it was a really uplifting afternoon.”

Rock Choir East Devon will restart rehearsals the week beginning January 13, 2026, and new members are always welcome. There are no auditions, and free taster sessions are available for anyone interested in giving singing in a group a try.