The B&L Collective has been named among the final six choirs in a UK-wide competition organised by Staysure as part of its Dream Big campaign, celebrating ambition, positivity and community spirit.
The group is believed to be the only South West choir to reach the final stage.
Founded in 2019 by Swindon twins and former finalists Billy & Louie, the choir has grown from five members to almost 50 singers from across the town and surrounding areas.
It is now a regular feature at festivals, charity events and community celebrations, bringing together people of all ages through music.
Here’s the video that secured our place in the final
If successful, the £20,000 prize would help cover venue and travel costs, provide uniforms and create scholarships for those who may struggle to afford membership.
It would also support more performances in care homes, at charity events and in the wider community. Billy & Louie said:
“This choir has always been about much more than singing. It’s about friendship, community and creating a place where everyone feels welcome. To be recognised as one of the top six choirs in the country is an incredible achievement, and winning would help us reach even more people through music.”
Choir member Sue Farrell said:
“Being part of our choir is about so much more than singing, it’s about belonging, friendship and wellbeing. From the moment you join, it feels like being part of a family. For me, it is one of the most rewarding experiences imaginable.”
The competition challenged choirs across the UK to record their own version of the campaign song, Where the Sun Don’t Shine, with the winner decided by public vote.
A Staysure spokesperson said the competition had attracted an exceptionally high standard of entries. They added:
“As a brand, we champion the idea that there should be no limitations placed on people as they age. We have been overwhelmed by the quality of entries from across the country. As well as the joy and camaraderie that being part of a choir brings, we also recognise the many wellbeing benefits that singing can offer.”
Voting is open until 3rd July, with residents urged to support one of Swindon’s community success stories.
From a small gathering of singers six years ago to national finalists, The B&L Collective’s journey has already surpassed expectations. A public vote could now see £20,000 invested back into the local community.
Vote via choircompetitionvote.co.uk
Voters must confirm their choice by email for it to count.
