SOMERSET’S new High Sheriff, Janet Montgomery, has taken on the role of patron of a Wells choral charity.

The sound of a choir has echoed around Wells Cathedral since the 10th century – and continues more than 1,100 years later through Wells Cathedral School.

Since 2004, the Wells Cathedral Chorister Trust (WCCT) has been raising money to provide bursaries to allow young people from all walks of life have the chance to become part of that illustrious musical legacy.

The school, one of just five government-supported specialist music schools in the UK, provides choristers for the cathedral and the WCCT helps the choir recruit young singers on merit alone – with no child being denied a place for financial reasons.

“We want to ensure that this wonderful, unique experience is available to gifted children from all backgrounds,” said Arnold Wills, chair of trustees.

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And High Sheriff Janet said she was proud to take on the role.

“WCCT completely aligns with my focus for the year,” she said. “A child from any background who has a choral talent now has the opportunity through the WCCT bursaries to pursue this, as well as receive an excellent education at Wells Cathedral School.

“This in turn will continue the longstanding tradition of excellent choral scholars within the cathedral.”

For more on Wells Cathedral Chorister Trust, events and how to get involved, visit wcct.co.uk.

Rob Buckley handing over the sword of the office to Janet Montgomery