The audience at Sheffield Bach Choir’s annual Messiah donated a magnificent £1, 157.86 for the cathedral’s Archer Project, which supports homeless people across Sheffield.

‘We are really grateful to all those who contributed.’ said choir Chair Chris Walker. ‘ A fantastic amount for a wonderful charity, and much needed especially at this time of year’.

The choir always holds a collection for the Archer collection at their annual Messiah performance, following a tradition started by Handel himself, who gave a performance of Messiah in 1750 in aid of one of his favourite charities, the Foundling Hospital, founded in 1739 by Thomas Coram, a philanthropic sea captain.

‘The Archer Project has supported thousands of people for over thirty years, aiming to help them into accommodation and to build fulfilling lives.’ explained Chris. ‘It started back in the 1980’s when the cathedral’s congregation providing homeless individuals with shelter and a basic breakfast. It has since developed into a service designed to help homeless people to improve their lives. Sheffield Bach Choir is very pleased to help support it’.

The concert itself was very well received by an enthusiastic audience, which leapt to its feet when the final ‘Amen’ had finished echoing round the cathedral. A wonderful evening rounded off with a most magnificent collection for this worthy charity.

You can read more about the Archer Project at https://www.archerproject.org.uk/