Worthing Philharmonic Choir is joining forces with the Sussex Symphony Orchestra and five soloists for a special Easter concert.

The concert, dominated by a performance of St Matthew Passion, takes place at the Assembly Hall in Stoke Abbott Road on Good Friday, April 18.

Starting at 7pm, it will be conducted by Mark Andrew James.

J S Bach's interpretation of the Easter story is so rarely heard locally that the choir has found only two instances of its performance in the borough of Worthing in the past 51 years.

Choir chairwoman Rosemary Bruford said: "If you miss this one, you may never have another chance."

The first performance in Sussex, conducted by Herbert Lodge, was given in 1952, to an audience of 980.

Mrs Bruford said: "One of the singers, John Polwin, is still very much with us today, both as a splendid bass and as vice-chairman of the choir.

"The second performance was given by Boundstone School Choir and Lancing Choral Society, conducted by Olive Poole, with John and Joan Polwin singing respectively Pilate and Pilate's wife.

"If you have memories of these occasions or know of other performances given locally, the choir secretary would be pleased to hear from you on 01903 501000."

Tickets can be obtained by calling 01903 206206, from the Pavilion Theatre or Connaught Theatre box offices or at the door.