A heart-warming community choir in Poole, which raises vital funds for families facing financial hardship due to cancer, is opening its doors to new members for the coming year.
More Than Just Singing: A Lifeline for Dorset Families
The DCCF Choir was established in 2024 to directly support the work of the Dorset Cancer Care Foundation (DCCF). This vital charity provides non-returnable grants to cancer patients across Dorset, covering costs from household bills to transport for hospital treatment. Every single penny raised by the choir's weekly subscriptions and community performances goes straight to the charity, with over £5,000 contributed so far.
The choir's 24 members, aged between 25 and 80, include cancer survivors. For members like Julie Barbary and her daughter Sophie Hinks from Poole, the cause is deeply personal. The DCCF supported them during Sophie's own cancer battle following a liver transplant. "I couldn't work and was terrified I would lose my house," Julie explained. "But the DCCF gave me money to help pay my mortgage and I'll never forget that." Now, singing in the choir is their way of giving back.
A Community Built on Harmony and Support
Founded by singing friends Maria Primmer, Tina Mereweather, Tina Edwards, and Jane Legg, the choir's ethos is about community, joy, and mutual support. "We get together to sing and support the charity, but we also give each other happiness by singing together," said Maria. She emphasises that no prior singing experience is needed—some members are seasoned, while others simply "like singing in the shower."
The focus is on fun, finding harmony for every voice, and walking out of rehearsals feeling positive. "We are all just normal people with normal lives," added Tina. "But together we sing at local events, enjoy ourselves, and in doing so help families across Dorset who are facing some of their darkest times."
How to Join the DCCF Choir
The choir is actively looking for new voices to join its ranks in 2026. A free taster session is offered for anyone interested. The group meets every Wednesday from 7pm to 9pm, restarting on January 7, 2026, at the Discovery Court Business Centre on 551-553 Wallisdown Road in Poole (Café Entrance).
Subscriptions are £5 per week on a pay-as-you-go basis. The evenings are relaxed and include a midway break for tea and biscuits—though attendees are asked to bring their own mug. For more information, you can email dccfchoir@gmail.com or call 07818 407965.
