20 years of 'The Singing Estate' choir celebrated

Residents of an estate in Oxford are celebrating the 20th anniversary of what seemed an impossible challenge.

In 2006, they were given three months to form a choir on the Blackbird Leys estate and then perform in the Royal Albert Hall in London.

Auditions were held, 40 people were chosen and their progress was filmed for a TV documentary, The Singing Estate, broadcast by Channel 5.

The performance was an outstanding success. All of the original members have since left the choir but some returned to mark the anniversary, joining current members at a rehearsal.

One of the choir's original members, Jeremy, recalled the excitement.

"We were dressed wonderfully, we went on, we sang properly and the buzz afterwards is one thing I remember. We were so happy."

Another original member, Taja, reflected on the impact of the project.

"I got to take part in this beautiful experience and make friends. It brought such a diverse group of people together.

After the Royal Albert Hall performance, the choir went on tour, visiting venues around the UK and abroad.

Founding member, Delena, says the challenge revealed the strength of local people.

"There's talent in our communities. There's a lot of people that will volunteer and do some amazing work."

The choir still meets in the church hall once a week, although it is currently low on numbers and only performs locally.

For current choir member Lynn, who lives alone, choir practice is also a social event.

"It is like joining a family. Singing together forms a bond, and it's really good for you," she said.