Kingsmen Barbershop Harmony Chorus has celebrated 35 years of singing, friendship and fundraising at a special awards evening in Kingsbridge.

Members of the chorus, along with family and friends, gathered to celebrate the achievements of the club and its members, with the evening featuring awards, long-service presentations and memories from more than three decades of singing.

The Kingsmen was founded in 1991, when 12 men attended the first rehearsal at the Crabshell Pub in Kingsbridge. Since then, the chorus has performed across the country and abroad, including three tours to the USA, competed in competitions and raised well over £100,000 for charities.

The club's history was on display during the awards evening, with attendees able to browse scrapbooks containing photographs, newspaper articles and other memories from its 35 years.

The archive material prompted stories and laughter as members looked back over the chorus's history and shared memories of performances, tours and friendships.

Chairman Paul Harvey opened the evening before handing over to Stu Newberry, who acted as master of ceremonies for the awards presentations.

The Harmony Award was presented to Kevin Hamer, who also received the Barbershopper of the Year Award.

Chris Lambart received the Jack Nation Trophy, while Ian Wooler was presented with the Director's Award.

Founder of the Kingsmen Roy Hann
Founder of the Kingsmen Roy Hann (The Kingsmen)

Several members were also recognised for their long service to the chorus.

Ten-year badges were presented to Jim Stewart, Terry Weeks, Kevin Hamer and Ian Wooler. Charles Harrington, Geoff Sharps and Shaun Fewtrell will also receive 10-year badges but were unable to attend the event.

Gary Rowe was presented with a 20-year badge, while Tim Wyatt and Steve Hancock received 30-year badges.

The evening also provided an opportunity to recognise one of the most important figures in the Kingsmen's history.

Mr Harvey presented founder Roy Hann with a special glass trophy in recognition of his contribution to the chorus.

Mr Hann founded the Kingsmen in 1991 and went on to serve as its musical director for 30 years.

The trophy was engraved with the words: “From your Brothers in Harmony. In celebration of your unwavering dedication, musical passion, and your 35 year milestone in founding the Chorus.”

The celebrations continued after the formal awards with an Afterglow at a local pub, where singing, friendship and fun continued into the evening.

The Kingsmen, which is a member of the British Association of Barbershop Singers, is now inviting people interested in singing to come along to a rehearsal and find out more about becoming a member.

The chorus says singing with the Kingsmen isn't just about hitting the right notes; it's about creating lifelong friendships and being part of a supportive group that loves to entertain.

For those looking for a place to learn and share their love of singing, the chorus says it would be delighted to welcome new members and introduce them to the enjoyment of singing in harmony.

For more information visit: https://www.kingsmen.org.uk/