The Citadel's Sing Out choir picked up a cheque for £9,930 from St Helens mayor Terry Shields after receiving the massive funding boost from the National Lottery's Awards For All scheme.

Led by Gareth Owens, the choir meets at the Waterloo Street venue every Wednesday evening and is open to people of all ages and abilities.

The funding boost will enable them to plan community performances throughout 2009 and work on a special commission to celebrate the Citadel's 21st birthday this autumn.

Citadel chief executive Fay Lamb said: "We are very grateful to Awards for All for supporting this important project within the borough. Sing Out truly is a choir for the people of St Helens sung by the people of St Helens."

Councillor Wally Ashcroft, executive member for culture, sport and heritage, said: "This well deserved funding will help to secure the future of this fine ensemble which will greatly add to the cultural offer in St Helens."

The Sing Out choir - which was jointly launched by the Citadel and St Helens Council last year - is currently looking to recruit 20 new members.

To find out more about the group, call the Citadel box office on 01744 735436, or go online at www.citadel.org.uk