Charlotte Church surprises young carers' choir as vocal coach

Singer Charlotte Church surprised a choir of young carers, becoming their vocal coach before their biggest performance.

The Action for Children choir is made up entirely of members aged between six and 19 who help look after a relative.

After a month of working together, the choir and Church will headline the charity's gala at Battersea Arts Centre in London on Thursday.

Church said every member has been an "inspiration in their own right".

"It's been a privilege to work with them and learn more about the challenges they face," said Church, 37.

The choir were invited to the Crazy Chick singer's wellness retreat in Powys where she surprised them with the news she would be their new vocal coach.

"We've been on a very special journey together to prepare for the Starry Night gala performance," added Church.

"I can't wait to see the choir give the performance of their lives on such a magical night."

"Being in the choir is one of the best decisions I've ever made," said 16-year-old Taylor, who cares for her mother.

She said the choir has given all the members an opportunity to "switch off" and enjoy themselves and that working with Church had been "incredible".

"I think back to the times when I've felt so low and alone and it feels surreal. I'm in such a different place now," added Taylor.

Laura Jones, a former young carer who established the choir in 2017, said: "I still have to pinch myself to believe that this is happening and that I am working with the one and only Charlotte Church.

"The experience has been life-changing for every choir member, including myself, giving us an opportunity to show what we can really do."