MIDWIVES at Poole and Bournemouth hospitals have given birth to a new musical venture.

The singing group, Royal College of Midwives’ Community Choir (Poole and Bournemouth), was organised by Jillian Ireland, who works as a supervisor of midwives at Poole Hospital.

Jillian, a union learning rep with the RCM, said the idea of the choir was born out of a taster session funded by South West Unionlearn.

“I was already a singer, so I knew how uplifting it is and how beneficial it can be,” she said.

“The choir isn’t just for midwives – it’s for everyone in the community.

“It really is a wonderful thing, and such a positive activity for everyone.”

The choir was formed in October last year, but has just performed to crowds of more than 300 as part of Poole Hospital’s first-ever Feel-good Friday, which is dedicated to providing advice about health and well-being for staff.

Jillian, who has been a midwife since 1991, said: “We’ve sung in the hospital before, but it was just a few carols at Christmas time.

“This time, it was in front of a big crowd.

“We sang You Raise Me Up and You’ve Got a Friend. It was a really lovely event.”

The group gather together to rehearse at Branksome Children’s Centre in Poole Road.

Piano teacher Chris Edwards has stepped in to fill the role of choir master after he was contacted by the midwives.

“It really enhances people’s lives to be part of a choir,” said Jillian.

“We’ve had some great feedback.

“One of the midwives who was forced to leave because of back problems said it gives her something to look forward to, which was really wonderful to hear.”

The choir is now self-funding, and will perform at the Tolpuddle Martyrs Festival in July.

For more information about performing with the choir, call the children’s centre on 01202 261540.