OXFORD Gospel Events Choir has had more than just 15 minutes of fame after a raft of performances with celebrities like of Susan Boyle and Peter Andre.

Some members from the record-breaking outfit have even performed with godfather of soul James Brown, as well as Oxford rock group Supergrass and dance label Ministry of Sound.

the choir's latest moment in the spotlight came as part of the BBC's Songs of Praise competition Gospel Choir of the Year.

The team of 25-35 events members was launched in 2005 by choir director Jules Francis-Sinclair, who also directs the Oxford Community Choir.

She said: "The Events Choir started because a smaller group was needed, we couldn't take 100 members to spaces such as weddings, it would be too intimidating, the smaller group was created, and perform more inspirational pop songs, they try a different material in professional settings."

The Abingdon mum-of-two added: "The experiences we have been offered have been fantastic, it's great to get the name out, the BBC has been a highlight for me, we had huge support from the Community Choir, 140 supporters went to watch the competition be filmed, lots of family and friends came, it's fantastic to have their support.

"We're a choir family, part of each other's lives."

The Events Choir performs at a variety of events including weddings, charity concerts, corporate occasions and their first television appearance was on culinary show Ready Steady Cook, which Ms Francis-Sinclair said was 'random, but good fun'.

They also proved their cooking prowess by completing a 15 minute challenge, in keeping with the nature of the show.

And it doesn't stop there, with the choir called on for all kinds of venues.

"We enjoy performing to a wide range of audiences for all types of events, and most recently for the opening night of Sister Act with Alexandra Burke, all at the New Theatre Oxford" she added.

"We strongly believe that singing is for everyone, regardless of previous musical experience, faith or age (as long as you’re over 18).

"We are also joint holders of the current Guinness World Record for the largest ever Gospel choir performance at the Royal Festival Hall – participating with around 1200 other singers."

Choir member Laura Church has been with the Events Choir for ten years and enjoys the sense of community. The 31-year-old said: "It's a great form of mindfulness, there's a sense of peace, there's up to 100 people, all singing as one, it's very therapeutic.

"It was a real privilege performing at the New Theatre, with Susan Boyle, and Peter Andre, both of them asked for a choir at their shows. The highlight was, though, performing for the BBC, it was amazing."

The BBC Songs of Praise gospel competition show will be shown on Sunday, November 29 and Sunday, December 3.

The choir meets every Tuesday at Wesley Memorial Church in New Inn Hall Street, Oxford from 7.30 – 9.30pm.

For more information on the choir, either email eventschoir@oxfordgospelchoir.co.uk, or telephone 07519 668137