Wistaston Singers have said farewell to their musical director Phil Houghton, who has stepped down after 22 years of leading the group, writes Jonathan White.
Mr Houghton led the choir for the last time at St Stephen’s Church in Crewe, supported by assistant musical director Clare Shackleton, with Ann Farrington on piano.
Adding further variety, the Wistaston Belles ensemble performed festive pieces on handbells, while a light-hearted musical interlude saw Chris White sing and play the ukulele and kazoo – all while dressed as Father Christmas.
The concert was a poignant occasion as the choir said farewell to Phil, who retires having shaped Wistaston Singers for more than two decades.
Although stepping down from the choir, he will remain active as organist at St Stephen’s and St Andrew’s churches in Crewe, and through his senior matchday role at Crewe Alexandra Football Club.
From January, the role of musical director will be taken on by Clare Shackleton.
She said: “I am very looking forward to exploring new ideas and opportunities with the choir and thank Phil for his hard work over the years.”
Wistaston Singers’ next performance will be a Charity Music Concert at St Mary’s Church Hall, Wistaston, on Saturday 17th January 2026, at 7pm.
The concert will raise funds for Cancer Research UK and will also feature St Mary’s Church Choir, St Mary’s Worship Band and soloist Lucia Kemp. Tickets are £10 for adults and £5 for under-16s.
The choir, which has around 60 members aged from their 20s to 80s, is also keen to welcome new singers of all abilities to join their friendly and inclusive group.
Wistaston Singers offer a free taster session, held on a Wednesday from 7.30pm to 9.30pm at Gainsborough Primary School on Belgrave Road in Crewe.
To find out more or follow their musical journey, visit the Wistaston Singers Facebook Group or email [email protected]
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