A LUNCH-time opera recital in Banbury next month will break new ground for LiveArts, the group that promotes and hosts concerts at the town's St Mary's Church.

By July this year, more than 20,000 people will have enjoyed a concert or exhibition at the church since the annual programme of events began four years ago.

The 2006 spring/summer programme highlights the new venture for LiveArts a lunchtime concert by English Touring Opera on Thursday, May 18, at 1pm.

Four professional opera singers will present a recital of some of the best-known and exciting moments from opera.

The concert is sponsored by Spratt Endicott solicitors.

Michele Hunter, LiveArts co-ordinator, said: "We wanted to offer a concert at a time of day when people working in Banbury could pop in during their lunch break and enjoy an hour of high-quality professional opera."

The programme continues on Saturday, June 10, at 7.45pm, when London musical sensations The WestEnders will perform their hit show, featuring songs from classics such as Les Miserables, Chicago, West Side Story, Crazy for You, and others.

The show has earned them critical and commercial acclaim throughout the UK.

Mrs Hunter said: "This show is bound to be a sell out. Tickets costing £15 adults, £13 concessions, and £50 for family of five, can be bought on-line from the LiveArts website www.livearts-at-stmarys.co.uk or from the Banbury tourist information centre in Castle Quay. Banbury Choral Society will present a Summer Operatic Gala Concert on Saturday, June 24, at 7.30pm, when they will be performing popular choruses and solos by Puccini, Verdi, Mozart, and Johann Strauss.

On Saturday, July 1, at 6.30pm, the Banbury Symphony Orchestra will perform Pictures in Sound, a concert of famous film music.

The season will end on Saturday, July 7, with the gospel musical Jail Break by Roger Jones.

Mrs Hunter said: "This musical has a strong message for today's world."

Further information about all LiveArts events can be obtained from the LiveArts website or by picking up a programme from St Mary's Church, the tourist information centre, libraries, or art and leisure centres.

Anyone interested in joining LiveArts as a volunteer or would like to join the group's mailing list, should call 01295 275772.