Alton Choral Society gave a moving performance of Stainer’s Crucifixion on Good Friday to a large audience at Alton Methodist Church.

This very appropriate work was a meditation on the sacred passion of Christ. A retiring collection raised more than £520 for St Michael’s Hospice.

The music took the form of a cantata with four-part choruses as well as solo parts for soprano, tenor and bass, which on this occasion were beautifully sung by Alison Crow, Christopher Lawrence, Peter Rankin, Jeremy Griggs, Richard Care, David Sheraton and Patrick Busby.

Jane Palmer accompanied expertly on the organ and the performance was skilfully conducted by Wendy Busby.

The society will perform music for a summer’s evening at Alton Methodist Church on June 29, including music by John Rutter and local composer Jenny Bateman.

It will also take part in the Alton Arts Festival at the Church of St Lawrence on July 7.