Members of Northern Ireland’s legal profession were in festive spirits at yesterday’s launch of the Pro Bono Choir’s inaugural Christmas CD in the Royal Courts of Justice.

The choir of solicitors, barristers and judges performed a short selection of Christmas carols to promote Midwinter, a collection of seasonal songs released in support of The NI Hospice, before inviting the audience to enjoy festive refreshments in Law Society House.

David John Reid BL, who co-chairs the choir alongside Joe Rice, told Irish Legal News that he enjoyed the “convivial atmosphere” of the choir, which brings together talented singers from all generations and all sections of the profession on a voluntary basis.

He said: “There are judges singing alongside pupil barristers and apprentice solicitors. It’s an opportunity for people to meet and socialise with members of the profession they maybe wouldn’t normally get to meet in a social setting.”

Mr Reid added: “Everyone in the choir is so welcoming and so friendly, it’s very easy to join and have a good time. It’s all very friendly and very social.”

Proceeds from the sale of the CD will go to The NI Hospice, a charity which provides specialist care to children, young people and adults with life-limited illness.

Mr Reid said: “Our main aim, other than coming together to make music, is to raise money for charities. It’s nice for us to give something back, and for the time we spend rehearsing to have a good cause to support in the end.”

CDs are available to purchase from Hannah Boyd on hboyd@jjrsols.com or at The Bar Library Reception.