Blewbury composer Richard Blackford is looking forward to the world premiere of his major new choral work Pietà on June 22nd.

Pietà is a commission from the Bournemouth Symphony Chorus and Orchestra, and will be performed at The Lighthouse, Poole. Written for choirs, orchestra and two soloists, the work also features the world-renowned soprano saxophonist Amy Dickson. The programme also includes Faure’s ever-popular Requiem. For tickets go to https://www.lighthousepoole.co.uk

10 Downing Street has chosen Blewbury’s Elliot Vaughn to receive one of its prestigious ‘Points of Light’ awards.

The Points of Light scheme celebrates “outstanding individual volunteers – people who are making a change in their community” and in Elliot’s case the award recognises his work as a founder of Give Out, a charity that makes grants to LGBT+ advocacy groups around the world to help them protect and promote LGBT+ human rights.

In a personal letter to Elliot, who is now a partner in the management consultancy BCG, Prime Minister Theresa May said: “Through ‘Give Out’ you are providing a unique platform for people to donate to LGBT organisations outside the UK, helping distribute crucial donations to activists who are promoting equality across the globe. You should be extremely proud of what you have achieved and I wish you the very best in your continued work.”