WEST Dorset choir Cantamus performed a carol on the BBC’s regional news programme, Spotlight, during the run-up to Christmas.

Fifteen members of the choir went to the parish church in Crediton, Devon, to film two carols, ‘Away in a manger’ and ‘King Jesus hath a garden’.

“It was a fascinating experience,” says alto Olivia Daly.

“I think we were all a little nervous under the bright lights – and with five cameras on us – but at least we knew we could do another ‘take’ if we went wrong. That doesn’t happen in our concerts!”

Cantamus were in good company at the filming; among the other singers performing carols were shanty singers The Fisherman’s Friends from Port Isaac, Cornwall, and the junior choir from Crediton Parish Church, whose members include the Radio 2 Young Chorister of the Year.

The TV appearance rounds off a successful year for Cantamus, whose reputation for top-quality singing is growing locally. Members recently performed their Advent programme at three Dorset venues: Loders, North Chideock and Thorncombe.

See cantamus-dorset.org