THE world-renowned Barnsley Youth Choir is set to receive £1,000 to help support the 450 young people who train there.

As part of the Benefact Group’s Movement for Good Awards, more than £1m is set to be invested in charities across the UK and Ireland, with 150 awards of £1,000 already being shared.

The local youth choir, who made a name for themselves with an appearance on Britain’s Got Talent two years ago, were one such lucky winners, and will be using the money to expand activities for members ages seven to 12.

This new funding will help with building out the new Children’s Choir South, where world-class singing education will be provided to youngsters in some of the borough’s most deprived areas.

Artistic director of Barnsley Youth Choir, Mat Wright said: “We are thrilled to receive this funding which will support the development of our new Children’s Choir South - serving the communities in the south of Barnsley and ensuring all children have access to the very highest levels of vocal training, regardless of circumstances.”

Further donations are set to be made, with people encouraged to nominate groups they think are worthy of support.

Mark Hews, group chief executive at Benefact Group, added: “We know that £1,000 can make a huge difference to the incredible work that charities do and we’re looking forward to seeing how this financial boost will change lives for the better.”