SWINDON’S U3A Choir is conjuring up those lazy, hazy, crazy days of summer with a special court yard concert and cream tea afternoon.

The De Vere Hotel at Shaw Ridge in West Swindon is opening its courtyard to the singers and their audience on Sunday, July 13 for two performances at 2pm and 3.30pm.

There will be tables available to reserve at £10, to enjoy the English tradition of jam and cream scones, with tea or coffee, while listening to the choir’s wide ranging repertoire of songs.

Martin Preston from the choir said: “The programme will include the first performance of a Gershwin medley especially arranged for us by Paul Maguire.’’ Paul is a veteran musical director of many West End shows including Godspell with David Essex and Jeremy Irons, The King and I with Virginia McKenna and Yul Brynner, Anything Goes with Elaine Paige and John Barrowman, and Joseph with Jason Donovan.

The Swindon pianist has always remained true to his home town helping out with various musical projects including performing regularly with the Kentwood Show Choir, which is led by Sheila Harrod, who is also the musical director of the U3A Choir.

The summer concert is al fresco unless it rains, when the show will move inside the De Vere Hotel. It is raising funds for charity.

Martin said: “We hope to raise a minimum of £1,000 for the Prospect Hospice in Wroughton.’’ To reserve tables call 01793 870178. There is also a free standing area to enjoy the concert, but donations will be welcome.

The choir will be taking a nostalgic step back in time when it joins the ranks of the Old Town Festival on Saturday, June 28. The festival afternoon is incorporating the town’s Armed Forces Day celebrations this year, so the choir is singing songs with a military theme.

Martin said: “Our performance will be in keeping with the centenary of the outbreak of the First World War.’’ The U3A Choir will be singing in the Marquee on the Lawns from 2pm.