This Easter, a music director got to realise one of his life ambitions.

Malmesbury Singers musical director Iain Duffin has been waiting for Easter to fall late in the year for one night, to direct St John’s Passion by J S Bach.

For a late Easter means more rehearsal time available for the choir to prepare for this huge musical tour de force.

And on April 13, Iain's ambition was finally achieved.

And the planned extra rehearsal time paid off, the performance being described as 'simply outstanding' with members of the audience commenting that this was one of the Singers’ best-ever concerts.

The choir was supported by the period instruments of the Corelli Orchestra (director Warwick Cole) and accomplished soloists including internationally renowned tenor, Neil Jenkins as the Evangelist.

The role of Jesus was beautifully sung by Sam Young, and Phil Brotheridge was a stern and convincing Pilate.

The other soloists, all of whom sang superbly were Hannah Davey (Soprano), Robert Jeffrey (Countertenor), Rupert Drury (Tenor).

Neil Medland, a former Westminster Abbey chorister commented on the evening: “It was a truly uplifting experience.

"From start to finish, this was a performance to be remembered and the Singers can be justifiably proud of their achievement.”

If you would like to be part of a future Malmesbury Singers concert or for more information, go to malmesburysingers.co.uk.