CHARITY fundraisers were in fine voice when they collected more than £2,700 to help support disabled children and adults.

A range of initiatives took place throughout Dorset during March as part of the Diverse Abilities Sing to Raise project, including performances and open mic nights by local choirs, musicians, bands, pubs, clubs and supermarkets.

Nicole Warrilow, community fundraiser at Diverse Abilities, said: “From Boscombe through Wimborne to Weymouth, established choir groups, pubs, individuals and bands sang their hearts out to raise funds for Diverse Abilities. We were thrilled with everyone’s enthusiasm and engagement during the month-long event.”

The Oddfellows pub in Wimborne dedicated its regular open mic night to the charity, led by Paul Thomas of the Men in Black duo. They not only collected on the night and held a raffle, but they even organised a stage in Wimborne Square for various local performers. Overall the pub helped to raise more than £1,000 and are continuing to support the charity over the year with collection pots.

Ian Kennedy of the band Night Train organised a ‘five-a-day’ busking tour visiting Bournemouth, Poole, Dorchester and Weymouth, ending up in the Drax Arms in Bere Regis, while Weymouth Rock Choir, led by Stacey Hobday, arranged a flash mob in Morrisons.

The month ended with a Wimborne BID-sponsored finale in Wimborne Square with local choirs and bands, including Vocal Impact, Citrus Singers, No Direction, Night Train, The 6 ‘O’ clock choir and The Guns of Navarone, performing on stage.

To get involved with Sing to Raise next year and hold a musical fundraiser in aid of Diverse Abilities, contact Nicole.warrilow@diverseabilities.org.uk or call 01202 718266.

For more information about Diverse Abilities, visit diverseabilities.org.uk