IT was sad to hear of the death of 'York showman' Ernest Johnson (Evening Press, March 19).

I sang alongside Ernie five years ago in the choir at All Saints Church, Pavement, when he was a very young-looking 83 in those days.

It is also sad to see church choirs in decline because it was a thrilling experience singing at All Saints.

I enjoyed Evensong even more because it was a challenge to learn the new parts each week. But it all became too much by summertime because I had to dash from the first service to play piano for the Scouts Gang Show rehearsals at my old school in Clifton.

We really need more singing in schools and more money for school music teachers in general, to ensure these lovely little church choirs can recruit new members.

Allan Denney,

Catesby House,

Holgate Road,

York.

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