IT will be the end of an era for members of Northwich and District Choir who are preparing for a sad farewell after 53 years of hitting the high notes.

Following a gradual reduction in choir numbers over the years it has become increasingly difficult to attract audiences, and the choir's future now hangs in the balance.

A final decision is due today, Wednesday, but it seems likely that the choir in its present form will fold.

The choir was formed in 1948 by Cyril Dawes, of Chester Road in Hartford, who held the baton as conductor until he retired through ill health three years ago.

Mr Dawes said: "After I founded the choir, our membership became too big to perform concerts in churches so we had to lower the numbers."

During its heyday the choir represented Great Britain in festivals abroard, appeared on BBC television and raised thousands of pounds for charity appearing in concerts all over the country.

They also won many festivals including the Eisteddfod.

Many well-known artistes sang or played with the choir with perhaps one of the most famous, cellist Julian Lloyd-Webber, who appeared in a concert to mark the choir's 50th anniversary.

"I'm very sad about the situation," said Mr Dawes.

"I just wish that I could have continued conducting."

Concert manager Nancy Dale, who was a founder member of the choir in 1948, said: "It's the end of an era in a way. The choir has played quite a part in the community.

"There are still a few founder members involved - we've got many happy memories."

She added that the number of members has now dwindled to 56 as younger people have not replaced retiring members.

But the choir now plans a memorable night with a farewell performance.

The concert will take place at Northwich Memorial Hall on October 3, when former festival choir members Helena Leonard and Ian Comboy will give special guest performances.

Both are now well known professional artists who started their careers as members of the choir, before going on to perform with a variety of leading choirs around Europe.

Guest artists Westgate Brass, who have performed with the choir in the past, will also be appearing on the night.