The choir went from strength to strength and was attracting between 60 and 80 people from around Thanet who would meet once a week at the Salvation Army hall in Minster. They even started to give public performances to showcase their vocal talents.
But when lockdown began in March, conditions meant the singers of Village Voices were no longer able to meet in person.
PCSO Forsyth said: ‘I was determined that the choir continue, even if we couldn’t be in the same room anymore.
‘What I didn’t anticipate before starting the choir is that it has provided a place where people can go who may be struggling not just with isolation, but a multitude of other issues such as mental health and grief. We’ve had people join who are fulltime carers, and they look forward to singing as it gives them a respite from whatever they are dealing with and allows them a chance just to be social.
‘Not only that, but people who may be considered vulnerable can be at risk of falling prey to criminals if they are alone – it is important they have that regular positive interaction to look after their welfare and know they are ok.
‘So now we meet via online video calls. It did take some adjusting to at first, but it wasn’t long before everyone was all singing along together as before.'
PCSO Forsyth is aiming to keep Village Voices singing via Zoom meetings every Wednesday while restrictions are in place.
‘Everyone is welcome to come along and join in. It is not about having the perfect voice. Members don’t have to be able to read music and there are no auditions to join.
‘Our members are full of creativity and bring great ideas about what to sing and how to sing it.
‘It was a little daunting when we started the choir as I realised I would be the one conducting - which I have never done before!
‘But it is great fun, people join the calls to sing, and sign off with their spirits lifted.’