THEIR voices have been hailed as “heavenly, powerful and emotional” and it’s obvious why the Southend Boys’ Choir has become one of the UK’s best known musical ensembles.

Since it was formed more than 45 years ago, its members have performed with some of the world’s most acclaimed orchestras and performed at prestigious venues across the globe. They’ve also made several records and CDs of their own.

Our image gallery shows photos of the 80-strong choir taken during the 1970s and ‘80s.

Among them are members with their “ Three Pop Cantatas” record in 1974, directed by Michael Crabb who formed the choir in 1970.