'Pride festival choir helps me feel less alone'

Manchester Proud Chorus is to set to perform at the city's 2024 Pride parade

An LGBTQ+ choir has been credited by its members for helping boost mental health and providing an "instant community" to be a part of.

The Manchester Proud Chorus, which is set to perform in the parade at the city's Pride festival, was formed more than 20 years ago to provide an inclusive space for members to meet and sing.

John Anderson told BBC Radio Manchester joining the choir had been "amazing" for his mental health.

"It's helping me being around people and it's not just about being in the choir, it's about not being on my own," he said.

Members say the choir has transformed their mental health and built their confidence

Tom, a bass singer from Bolton, said he moved to Manchester for "the opportunity to be myself", and the choir was "the icing on the cake".

"I've never felt so at home before, I've never been happier," he said.

"I found my partner through it, and it's made me a much happier more confident person."

The community choir has performed across the UK and Europe, including one recital in front of Queen Elizabeth II.

Members also sing on trams across Manchester in 2014 as part of a Safe to Sing campaign following a homophobic attack in 2014 on a tram in the city.

Angie, originally from Bolton, moved to the city from living in United States to look after her mum and said the choir gave her an "instant community".

"I am in my mid 60s, so I’m not going to go and sit in a bar, I needed to do something, because we all need community," she said.

"And I love singing so I joined, and it's the best thing that could’ve happened for me."