CHOIRS across Oxford have been invited to join an open-air festive singing extravaganza.

Sing Christmas will be held in and around the city on Saturday, December 12 to celebrate the Christmas season through song.

The new event forms part of the Christmas in Oxford programme organised by the city council.

Participating choirs will be given a slot of either 25 minutes or 55 minutes to perform.

The venues are yet to be confirmed but Bonn Square, in the centre of the city, will stage most of the action.

A host of heavenly singers, including the Blackbird Leys Choir and the city centre-based Seagreen Singers, have already signed up, but the event is still open to all.

Granfather-of-eight, Eric Hall, of Nightingale Avenue, has already signed up.

The 75-year-old is a tenor with the Blackbird Leys Choir and said he is looking forward to the event.

He said: “We’ve got a little spot in town somewhere and it should be lots of fun. I have been singing since I was eight and I very much enjoy it.“ Liz Hodgson, who sings with choirs Joined-Up Singing and the Seagreen Singers, said she would perform with each choir on the day.

She said: “I am looking forward to the day as there is such a diversity of music in this city and there will be lots of different people singing and playing all over the city.”

The city council has pushed the deadline for entries back a week to Friday, December 4.

Colin Reid, the council’s cultural development manager, said: “Oxford is alive with musical talent and this is the opportunity for choirs to take a lead in celebrating this special time of year, by taking Christmas music out into the streets, squares, and other public spaces.”

To enter a choir or singing group, contact Sing Christmas co-ordinator Sarah Mayhew on 07940 287967 or email info@inevents.org