Cockermouth Harmonic Society are preparing to start their new season on a high note after a £150 donation from the Times & Star Charitable Trust.

The society, which has 60 members from their teens to mid 90s, will begin rehearsals for their new season on Monday, September 14.

The society typically stages three major concerts a year and the donation will help fund them.

This year's planned concert programme includes performances of Fauré's Requiem and Handel's Messiah.

Tim Hirst, chairman, said: "Hiring music is just one of the costs of providing high-quality music in Cockermouth.

"We are very grateful to receive this money from the Times & Star."

The society rehearses on Mondays from 7pm at the United Reformed Church on Main Street.

It is open to all, with no auditions, and new members are welcome.