Amateur singers turned out to a church in Stoke Bishop for the chance to perform on one of the grandest stages of them all - the Royal Albert Hall.

Sing Live is looking for 800 people to take part in a special concert at the London venue in September, and is hosting introductory sessions nationwide.

For the first time this year the organisation has been inviting people from Bristol to take part, and last night around 20 went to St Mary Magdalene Church in Mariners Drive to try their voices out.

No experience is needed, there are no auditions and full training is given by professionals.

Co-founder Linda Metcalfe and vocal coach Simon Curtis will be holding sessions at the church every Monday evening for the next 11 weeks and hope to have it packed to the rafters with potential candidates.

Simon, who works for the Welsh National Opera, said: "Singing is about fun, everyone has a voice and it's exciting working with a new group.

"I know some people here have sung before but there are some who've never sung, so the idea is to mould them so they're confident."

Participants will have to learn 16 numbers in the next 12 weeks, ahead of the big concert on Sunday, September 27.

The theme is musicals of the silver screen, with songs including Greased Lightning from Grease, Climb Every Mountain from the Sound of Music and The Time Warp from the Rocky Horror Picture Show.

Last night's attendees ranged from people well practised in song to complete beginners.

Carol Reeves of Keynsham was one of the singers.

She said:"I enjoy singing. It lifts the spirits and wanted something to cheer me up after I was made redundant."

John Smith, 65, came along to support his wife Barbara, 64. Both are pharmacists and live in Henleaze.

Barbara said: "I saw the headline 'sing in the Royal Albert Hall' and thought I'll never be able to do that. I'm a bit of a non-singer.

"But it's one of those 1,000 things to do before you die."

John said: "I've come to support Barbara but I'm looking to enjoy myself as well.

"You've got to have a laugh."

The concert which will be hosted by TV presenter Judith Chalmers and supporting The Lady Taverners charity, that promotes cricket for young people from disadvantaged backgrounds or disabilities. .

Singers will be accompanied by the National Festival Orchestra.

Sessions at St Mary Magdalene take place on Mondays between 7.30pm and 10pm, and the only requirement is that you are over 16.

Budding singers can call beforehand on 01609 780315.