STROUD Choral Society is about to say farewell to their piano accompanist of 23 years and their president since 1998, Gail Fearnley-Wittingstall.

"The job of accompanist requires technical skill, huge patience and an ability to respond instantly to the conductor's instructions," said Choral Society representative Barbara Moinet.

"Stroud Choral Society has over 100 members singing in four parts, bass, tenor, alto and soprano and it has been Gail's job to know each part as well as that of the orchestra.

"This has meant familiarising herself with each work in advance of rehearsals. Being a brilliant sight reader has also helped."

"I'll miss the Monday evening rehearsals," said Gail.

"It is a very friendly society, with a long and proud history. "Playing for and with a 100 plus singers is exhilarating, sometimes testing, but always fun. My 23 years have been very happy."

Sue Edwards, who has sung with the choir for 21 years, said: "Gail has been a friendly and familiar face at weekly rehearsals during that time.

"Her skilful playing has kept us all on the straight and narrow, and on occasions when our conductor has been away, Gail has lead rehearsals in his absence with tact and firmness.

"She is also an excellent concert pianist in her own right. We will all miss her."

Stroud Choral Society is now looking for an accompanist to replace Gail in the New Year.

Anyone interested in finding out more about the post should contact the Society's chairman, Stewart Price, on 01452 814241 or the Secretary, Jane Wilmore, on 01453 731754.

The Society meets on Monday evenings at St Laurence's Church Hall, Stroud.