MEET THE BELLES
MUSICAL DIRECTORS
CATRINA LAKIN
Musical Director
Catrina has a degree in music and and many years of barbershop experience, including three years as Assistant Musical Director of the chorus. She more or less grew up as an Abbey Belle as her mum, Carol, is a long standing member and was Musical Director herself for several years. Catrina sings lead in the quartet 'Jabberwocky'.
HELEN RAINFORD
Assistant Musical Director
Helen has been our Assistant Musical Director since 2015 and a member of the chorus since 2013. She has an amazing commitment to the chorus and drives us to ever better ourselves!
THE SINGERS
Meet some of our singers and find out why they love being a Belle!
TRACY
Lead
I enjoy being a Belle because I’m learning a craft. Music and singing have always been important to me and now I’m learning to sing properly within a chorus of lovely ladies.
My confidence has grown and I absolutely adore singing in public, whether it’s a sing out in some wet and windy place or on a stage at a major event.
I would recommend becoming a Belle to anyone interested in singing in a chorus I’m so glad I did, it has certainly enriched my life.
ANNE THOMPSON BELLE OF THE YEAR AWARD
The Belle Of The Year Award for set up in honour of Anne Thompson, one of our members who tragically passed away in January 2022. Anne was Bass Section Leader and Treasurer of the Chorus for many years. She was also the bass in her quartet Hullabaloo for two decades. She was gentle and kind, with a beautiful mellow voice.
The award is in her memory and funded by the generous donation from her daughter Belinda and son Graham.
2026 - Sue(perb) Lord
Sueperb was the clear and unanimous choice for Belle of the Year 2025, and it’s easy to see why. Her dedication to making the chorus look and feel incredible on the Convention stage went far beyond expectations. From sourcing and sizing dresses to navigating the chaos of mismatched colours, endless emails, returns, and last‑minute alterations, she handled every challenge with determination, grace, and an unwavering belief in the chorus. Her efforts didn’t just give the group a polished look - they lifted spirits and helped everyone step on stage feeling like true contenders.
Alongside her Herculean costume work, she continued to support the chorus with calm guidance, quiet care, and a beautiful singing voice that she shares despite her nerves. Whether offering advice, sensing when someone needs help, or accidentally creating the comedy moment of the year by throwing socks during her recovery, she brings heart and humour to everything she does. Even though she wasn’t there to receive it (what a time to take a holiday!), the chorus proudly celebrates her as the very deserving Belle of the Year 2025.