A WHOLE village was involved when singers gave arousing performance of extracts from Handel’s Messiah in the parish church to raise money for a replacement roof.

Last year lead thieves struck at the church in the run-up to Christmas but thanks to the concert the fund for a replacement roof was boosted by £1,236.

Cash was also raised for other charities.

A total of 60 singers raised the roof of All Saint’s Church, All Cannings near Devizes after Calne Choral Society spent the day putting villagers through their paces and many more came to hear the concert.

Conductor Phil Springate, supported by Alta Ridgway and the Messiah Quartet musicians held a rehearsal during the afternoon of November 11.

The choir was joined by enthusiastic singers from the village and surrounding communities. The Friends of All Saint’s Church were out in force and were joined by other villagers who wanted to hear the familiar and popular music.

Wine and canapes were served during the interval and those taking part were given a three course supper before the main performance.

A spokesman said: “ The generosity of all those who took part, helped swell the replacement of the roof fund with a less attractive material to the thieves, by £1,236, with additional funds going to the Wiltshire Air Ambulance and BLESMA who both received £412.

“Thanks in particular to our visiting musicians and also the generous sponsorship of Wansboroughs, Highway Hill, The Little Eco Shop (Wharfside, Devizes) and Fluid Network Solutions.

“The total take was £2,060, a magnificent result.”