An established male voice choir is in danger of folding because it desperately needs a conductor - and it is inviting both men and women to apply for the post.

The Burley Probus Male Voice Choir was founded 21 years ago and plays a valuable role in the community, raising hundreds of pounds for charity and entertaining residents of old folks homes.

But now the group's very existence is threatened as it struggles to find a conductor to replace Ken Milnes who is retiring in May after six years in the post.

The 32-strong probus choir is made up of retired men - but it is being stressed that applications for the role of conductor are welcome from women and from non-probus members.

Secretary Brian Jones said: "Just because it's a male voice choir it doesn't mean the conductor has to be a man. The accompanist is a female."

He said female conductors had also stepped in to help out temporarily in the past when they were needed because of problems such as ill health.

The choir was set up by Probus members 21 years ago - but it's members do not have to belong to Probus, nor do they have to live in Burley.

Each year the choir's annual concert raises around £800 for charity, and this year's event on April 5 at Burley in Wharfedale Methodist church will raise funds for Champion House at Calverley - part of the Cheshire Homes charity. Organisers are warning that the event, which will have Leeds City Organist Simon Lindley as guest artist, could be the last of its kind.

At the end of April the choir will perform at the Clarke Foley Centre in Ilkley - and unless a new conductor is found the event will be its very last concert.

Mr Jones said: "It would be a shame if it folded, because we all enjoy ourselves - but things being as they are it is looking grim."

Anyone interested in taking on the role should contact Mr Jones on 01943 874552.