THE Three Towns Operatic Society held its annual awards ceremony at Leigh Cricket Club on Saturday.

There was much to celebrate following the society's successful Waltzes from Vienna production at St Joseph’s Concert Hall.

In recognition of an outstanding contribution to the life and work of the society, The Margaret Dakin Memorial Award was presented to Ursula Lightford.

A society member for 23 years and a committee member for nine years, Ursula is currently the society's music librarian, music researcher and a member of the concert selection panel.

The Chorus Trophy was awarded to the chorus as a whole for their dedication, commitment and enthusiasm and the Orchestra Trophy went to society pianist Nicola Dagnall for her walk-on part as a flunky.

National Operatic and Dramatic Association (NODA) Long Service Awards were presented to Mel Bailey and Sue Bradley for 40 years, Catherine Kay, Elsie Murphy and Winnie Wilcock for 35 years, Jean Richardson for 30 years, Janet Rees for 25 years, Susan Shaw for 20 years and Fran Davies for 15 years.

Life membership was awarded to Winnie Wilcock for services to the society.

The society is now in rehearsals for its annual concert, which will take place at St Joseph’s Concert Hall on Friday and Saturday, November 18 and 19.