Nottingham men's cancer support choir sets date for first concert

The group has already had three rehearsals and has another three to go

A choir set up to support men with cancer has set the date for its first concert.

Nottingham Men Allowed was started in December to raise awareness of prostate cancer and support for those affected by it.

Organisers said the choir only had three members in January but now has nearly 60 singers.

The choir will hold its first concert in aid of Prostate Cancer UK in Lenton on 20 April.

Chris Murratt, who is one of those behind the group, said: "We know how brilliant singing is. How good it is for male mental health by making friends and having a great time.

"By linking it with Prostate Cancer UK we felt were able to attract men into something really constructive and something new they perhaps wouldn't normally do."

Singing experience is not necessary but members do need to conquer their stage nerves.

Danny Thorpe hopes his own experience of prostate cancer can help others

Choir member Danny Thorpe, from Nuthall, has prostate cancer.

He said: "Men are not necessarily the best at talking about their health and fitness and mental health.

"So I'm thinking that now I can actually mentor people going through similar situations and I think it's important that I talk about it, then other people will talk to me about it."

Jonathan Gregory, originally from Australia but now based in Nottingham, said: "I have never sung before - not since I was about 12 - so it's been quite an exercise."

He added that taking part in the choir was a chance to do "something courageous and brave".

The group has already held half of its six rehearsal sessions scheduled to take place before the concert.

Nottingham Men Allowed's concert at the Marcus Garvey Centre will be supported by Carlton Male Voice Choir and Carlton Brass.