A community orchestra that has raised more than £1,000 for local charities is holding an open day.

The Dorchester Community Orchestra, known as Dorchestra, are holding an open day to attract more players on Sunday, May 12 between 2.45pm to 5pm at the United Church on South Street, Dorchester.

The group, who often meet up once a fortnight on a Sunday afternoon at the church, are looking for both those who are already learning an instrument, as well as potential players that need to brush up on existing skills.

Part of Dorchestra’s reach into the community is with their fundraising capabilities, with the group raising more than £500 a year for the last two years for Dorchester Poverty Action.

Dorchestra’s secretary, John Elridge, who also plays trumpet in the orchestra, said: “We’re a community orchestra and have a range of abilities from Grade 1, people that haven’t picked up an instrument in years, to some very talented musicians.

“Everyone is welcome to come along and play,” he added.

Whilst including traditional players of the orchestra, Dorchestra has its own saxophone player.

The open day will see the group learn a ‘straightforward’ piece of music and go ‘from zero to hero,’ according to Mr Eldridge.

Hosting two concerts a year, their next concert on Sunday, April 28 between 4pm to 5pm at the United Church will raise money for Cycling Without Age (CWA). The Weymouth based charity allows elderly people to cycle with the aid of a ‘pilot’ in a tricycle.

To learn more about the work that Dorchestra do, search Dorchestra (Dorchester Community Orchestra) on Facebook, or email John at info.dorchestra@gmail.com