Lovebirds hit the high notes with a little help from the carers’ choir

Still in tune after 40 years: Michael and Irene Exley

A member of Rochdale carer’s choir put on a unique performance when she sang with them at her own wedding – 40 years after first getting married.

When Irene and Michael Exley first tied the knot in 1974 they had no money and no guests.

So after 40 years together and with plans to renew their wedding vows, they wanted to really put on a show.

And what better way than to invite the carers’ choir to perform for their 100-strong crowd of family and friends at the Rochdale bowling club.

Irene (59), who cares for her daughter who has learning difficulties, said: “Being in the carers’ choir really perks me up. I was getting in a rut but then I joined the choir and really enjoyed it.”

“I asked the carers’ choir to perform at the wedding and kept it secret from everyone, including Michael. We sang songs we know like ‘thank you for the music’ by Abba and I did Patsy Kline’s ‘crazy’ as a solo. I thought I would sound awful, but everyone loved it. It was a nice surprise.”

The carers’ choir is made up of members of The Carers’ Resource, a council-run support network for carers across the borough, based at the Newbold buildings in Oldham Road.

Since forming the choir almost two years ago, the singers have performed at a number of places across the borough, including Rochdale library and Rochdale Town Hall.

Councillor Jean Hornby, Cabinet Member for Adult Care at Rochdale Borough Council, said: "I would like to congratulate Irene and Michael on their Ruby wedding anniversary and wish them much happiness for the future. It’s wonderful to hear that the choir has made such a difference for Irene that she wanted to make them a part of one of the biggest days of her life.

"I’d encourage anyone else out there who needs support to contact the carers’ resource on 01706 925808.”