The music director of a Test Valley group will retire after its next concert.

Tim Lowden started Stockbridge Music in 2012 after deciding that the market town would be a perfect venue to hold a series of classical concerts.

The aim of the organisation is to bring top quality musicians to Stockbridge at affordable prices and, more importantly, to help talented young musicians further their careers by providing a platform for performances in public.

The combination of using St Peter’s Church and the town hall has allowed audiences of between 70 and 180 to enjoy a wide range of musical repertoire. 

READ MORE: Winchester Symphony Orchestra concert with Holly Teague

Stockbridge Music has attracted a multitude of performers such as Sansara who have since become a household name. Professor David Owen Norris, the musician and composer, recently agreed to become its patron.

Mr Lowden's service will be recognised at the final concert of this year given by the Beaufort Singers on Friday, October 20 in St Peter's Church at 7.30pm. 

A sponsorship fund is to be established to ensure the ongoing future of Stockbridge Music, details of which will be announced at the concert. 

Tickets are still available from stockbridgemusic.uk.