ONE of the finest male voice choirs in Wales is appearing in Newport, with support from one of the city's rising musical stars.

With a long and proud history behind them, the Morriston Orpheus Male Voice Choir enjoy a reputation that reaches far beyond their home turf in Swansea.

Two years after forming in 1935, the choir achieved its first success at the National Eisteddfod in Machynlleth, Powys, and went on to take first prize on six occasions.

In recent years the group has travelled the world, appearing in Taiwan, the Middle East, and all over Europe.

Highlights have included two barnstorming performance at the world-famous Sydney Opera House, which they hope to repeat when they return to the venue in April this year.

Meanwhile, 18-year-old Holly Holyoake is well on her way to becoming the next Katherine Jenkins.

The Duffryn teenager's powerful voice has already filled not only Rodney Parade but also the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff during performances at packed rugby matches during the last year.

Since leaving school, the young soprano has continued to perform, practising every day, and also works part-time for Lloyds TSB internet banking.

But her dream is to have a full-time musical career - and with her talent it should be one that comes true.

Morriston Orpheus Male Voice Choir and Holly Holyoake will be performing at the Riverfront Theatre and Arts Centre, Newport on Saturday, February 17 at 7pm. Tickets are £10. For bookings, call the box office on 01633 656757.