ULVERSTON Choral Society perform Handel's festive favourite Messiah at St Marys Parish Church on Friday, December 15 (7.30pm).

Written in 1741, the mighty work will be accompanied by an invited orchestra under the baton of music director, Jolyon Dodgson with soloists, soprano, Julie Leavett, alto, Claire Eadington, tenor, Austin Gunn and baritone, David Hoult.

Tickets at the door or on 01229-716321.

Elsewhere, two works by Alexander L'Estrange, as well as seasonal carols for audience participation, are in the Arnside Choral Society programme for its Saturday, December 16 (7.30pm) concert at St James Church, Arnside.

For the historical, foot tapping, Ahoy! Sing the Mary Rose, the popular choristers will be joined by the choir of Arnside National Primary School and for Wassail, a mixture of traditional carols and quirky arrangements, the Milli Youth Choir will share the spotlight with the the 70 strong choral society.

Conducted by Ian Allan, the concert also features the Wassail Five Quintet and soprano soloist Faye Bowness.

Tickets in advance from Posh Sardine, choir members or www.arnsidechoralsociety.co.uk.

Burton Singers A Touch of Winter Christmas concert is on Saturday, December 16 (doors open 7.30pm) at Burton-in-Kendal Memorial Hall, featuring a sprinkling of seasonal songs and festive pop hits. Tickets are available at the village store with all proceeds donated to local charities.

Finally, Eversley Choir’s Christmas concert Hail Smiling Morn, is a celebration of carols and readings from Thomas Hardy's Under the Greenwood Tree, taking place at St Thomas's Church, Milnthorpe, on Monday, December 18 (7.30pm). Conducted by Ian Jones, also in the programme is Hallelujah Chorus, Cherry Tree Carol, Angels from the Realms of Glory and more. Tickets on 015396-21559.