Harmony Choir diversion was a trial due to complaints (From Falmouth Packet)

Harmony Choir diversion was a trial due to complaints

10:30am Tuesday 29th January 2013 in News

After complaints of 'heath and safety gone mad', organisers have explained that a decision to divert the Christmas Harmony Choir’s usual route through Falmouth to Church Street car park was due to complaints from shoppers.

Calling the 'trial' move, a popular one with both singers and shoppers organisers say it will be repeated this year.

Last week Packet reader, Ron Eyre, from Perranwell Station, questioned the re-routing suggesting it was “health and safety gone mad.”

Choir chairman, Ron Medlyn, this week explained the reasoning behind the decision. “Because of congestion outside HSBC and a number of complaints from shoppers, handicapped people and wheelchair users, we were asked to consider moving to the car park,” he said.

“The harmony committee agreed to alter the route for one year only as a trial. Since the event we have had many choir members and general public comments – all of them in favour of the move which was a great success. The HSBC stop has always been a bottle-neck.

“If only choir members sang there, then there would be no problem, but many women, children and non-choir members join in at this point.

“The aim of the choir’s committee is to keep the singing of Cornish carols alive, regardless of where we sing. I think it (the car park) is better for the singers and audience alike. The committee’s aim is to try and please all our singers and friends.”

The diversion has also been supported by Falmouth’s town centre manager, Richard Gates, who said: “I have received many positive comments from people who watched the choir singing at Church Street car park and thought it was much more enjoyable because there was more space. We mentioned before Christmas that this was a trial, but as Ron says, this has been very well received by the majority and our intention is to continue this for Christmas 2013.”

Related links: Decision to divert Harmony Choir from main street stinks

Harmony Choir brings seasonal cheer to Falmouth: PICTURES