MEET THE BELLES
MUSICAL DIRECTORS
CATRINA LAKIN
Musical Director
Catrina has a degree in music 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!
BERNICE
Bass
I joined the Abbey Belles chorus three weeks after my husband died. I felt ‘included’ that first week. I had never sung before and do not read music. That first Tuesday in October 2012 I was standing on the risers and attempting ,with help to follow black and white ‘up and down‘ notes (and on the bottom line too as they decided I was a Bass) of Girls Wanna Have Fun…
Over the almost eight years there have been ‘retreats’, fundraising car boot sales and busking in Selby and York. I have sung on coaches going to competitions at Llandudno, Bournemouth and Harrogate, flash mobbed at motorway service stations and sung on the ferry to the Isle of Man. I have been on fun weekends to London, a safari park and the Harry Potter Experience, entertaining at WI’s, care homes, Christmas markets and stately homes. I have learned how to apply stage makeup, been able to wear silver high heeled sandals, dangly earnings and glittery dresses. Learned how to walk on and off stage, how to stand, breathe and emote. Recently I have been involved in virtual rehearsals. Who would think at 81+ years I would have so many friends who will help me enjoy and learn some beautiful songs to sing and have so much fun in later life!
What an omen that was in my first week in 2012 - "Girls Wanna Have Fun". I am so pleased to be a member of the Abbey Belles!
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.