A LLANDYBIE choir has put out an appeal for a new musical director to prevent the group from disbanding in their 30th year.

Cor Merched Tybie have been performing in the area for the past three decades after being formed by the WI in Llandybie in 1989.

However, the choir are now at risk of folding due to the lack of a musical director.

Aneira Godbold, chair of the choir, explained: “Unfortunately, our musical director had to step down over Christmas and we have been really struggling to find anyone to replace her.

“We have contacted numerous musically qualified people, Musical Directors of other choirs to see if they could either take on another choir or if they know someone who would be interested, as well as every school in the area who have a music department to see if anyone could help. All to no avail.

“Without a new musical director, it will be extremely difficult to continue.”

They will continue until their AGM in July, but warn that if they still don’t have a new musical director by that point, the future will look very bleak and may have to consider disbanding.

With the help of Dorothy Singh, the group is still practicing weekly from Llandybie Rugby Club. However, they are currently unable to take any booking for performances.

Mrs Godbold added: “The sad thing is, this is our 30th anniversary year and we had hoped to put on a number of performances to celebrate, tracing the music the choir have sung through the years, but without a musical director that’s not going to be possible.

“It would be sad loss to the area if the choir were to disappear as it is hugely important to the community. Of course, there is also the bigger picture of the diminishing number of Welsh choirs in the area which, as it’s an integral part of our heritage is very sad indeed. We are determined that Cor Merched Llandybie will not be another one on the list.

“It would also be a huge loss for our members, as for many it is the only social event that is permanently in their calendar. Singing with the choir is hugely important to their wellbeing, social interaction and mental health and would be a real loss if it was to disappear.

To apply, contact cmtybie@yahoo.co.uk or call Aneira Godbold on 07766 918948.