Ed Sheeran surprises singers at new choir school

Singer-songwriter Ed Sheeran has surprised choristers rehearsing their Christmas carol services when he officially opened their new music school.

Just under 40 young people are part of the St Mary-le-Tower choir in Ipswich.

It has recently been able to open its Song School opposite the church on Tower Street, in a building which is also used as a well-being and community hub shared with Citizens Advice.

The church's vicar, the Reverend Tom Mumford, said: "He was amazing with our young choristers, listening to them, asking them questions."

Mr Mumford said: "My hope is that [Sheeran's] commitment and work will encourage many more young people to explore singing, and what better place in Ipswich to do that than at Ipswich Minster."

Grade II* listed St Mary-le-Tower, which has medieval origins and was refurbished in the 19th Century, will be designated a minster in January.

The designation, which coincides with the town's 825th anniversary, recognises it as a "church of key significance to the town", according to the Church of England.