The new honorary patron of local classical music charity HHH Concerts is celebrated opera mezzo soprano Dame Ann Murray.

At a sold out concert by the Consone String Quartet last week at the beautiful St Christopher’s church in Wey Hill, Dame Ann was welcomed with rapturous applause.

Stephen Dennison, chairman of HHH Concerts, welcomed Ann, picking from her long history as a top international opera star the fact that she had sung at the Proms 21 times and six times led singing at the last night.

He said: “We are honoured that Ann has accepted to join us. It is marvellous that a long time Haslemere resident can join with a 90-year-old Haslemere institution to celebrate the highest levels of artistic performance.”

Ann said she was delighted to be associated with such a fine local group, which not only brings the finest classical chamber music to the town but also engages with local schools to give children access to the enjoyment of music.

Ann was born in Dublin, has close links with the English National Opera and has sung lead roles all over the world. She was made a dame in the 2002 Golden Jubilee Queen’s Birthday Honours.

HHH is staging a series of lunchtime piano solo concerts on February 21, 22 and 23. For details visit hhhconcerts.org.uk