A CHOIR which puts the community at the heart of its music celebrated the official launch of its first CD at the weekend.

The 15-strong Swindon Gospel Choir performed alongside existing Gospel artists and special guests Derick Ndimande, France Dlamini and Mathias Mhere – from South Africa, Swaziland and Zimbabwe at the launch concert in Park South Community Centre in Cranmore Avenue.

From 4pm to 8pm the singers lifted the roof with voices to an audience of more than 150 people.

Choir director Steve Mpofu, who is also a pastor of Christendom Pentecostal Church, said: “It was a great success and we all had a wonderful time. The quality of the performances were exceptional and we were very, very pleased.

“The visiting artists were also pleased to be able to come to Swindon and perform. I am pleased because at last we have performed on the stage and we have released the CD and people are beginning to hear more about us.

“I am just so pleased that we have done it.”

The choir’s first recording – You Are The Same – features the voices of some 15 choir members aged between 16 and 52 from all over the world, including Zimbabweans, South Africans, Swazis and Nigerians.

It is available for £7 at the Rainbow Bookshop or That’s Entertainment in the town centre, Or as a download from Amazon at www.amazon.com/ You-Are-the-Same/dp/B00KJLPU8M.