ONE of the sponsors of the Duke Ellington Sacred Concert in Bradford on Avon has been so impressed by the event he is willing to be involved again next time.

Steve Vick, managing director of Steve Vick International, sponsored the concert on Sunday alongside Bradford on Avon Town Council and Wiltshire Council.

He said: "I have to say a big thank you to you all for encouraging us to be involved in this thoroughly enjoyable event.

"The standard of the performances way exceeded our expectations and I can genuinely say I and my colleagues were blown away."

The two-hour concert on Sunday afternoon at the Wiltshire Music Centre featured the GBH Big Band, the Soul Celebration Community Choir, the WMC Chorus and the Cantamus Chamber Choir from Bath.

They were conducted by musical director Mike Daniels, with soprano Tina May providing solo vocals, and tap dancer Lesley Moodie also contributing.

The concert combined jazz and big band swing numbers with a second half of soulful choral and show-stopping tap dance arrangements.

Mr Vick added: "All the performers are to be congratulated for their contributions and their obvious enjoyment in their performances was very infectious.

"Our financial position permitting, I’m sure we’d be delighted to be involved in a similar event next year."

The concert was originally organised by local town and Wiltshire councillor Jim Lynch as part of his Food of Love Festival, which was later cancelled because other events planned could not find sponsorship.

Cllr Lynch said: "Every cloud has a silver lining and this event shone out.

"The camaraderie between the performers and the audience was remarkable. It was a genuine community triumph and my sincere thanks to all involved.

"Now the only question is, how do we better it next year?"