Marie has been the driving force behind our choirs since she opened the very first one, in London back in 2008, so we are thrilled that her work has been recognised by being named the TSB Community Hero at this year's Pride of Britian Awards.

Over the past 15 years, since that first London rehearsal with just a handful of people singing together in a room, more than 6,500 people have sung with our choirs.

Many of our people have gone on to find work and stable accommodation, and our members survey found nine out of ten choir members feel a sense of belonging at their choir, have forged meaningful friendships and increased their confidence. Our most recent survey also found that 75% of our members have achieved at least one positive life change such as securing housing or finding work, since joining one of our choirs.

All of this thanks to Marie's brilliantly simple vision and belief in the power singing together can have to change lives.

The Daily Mirror's Pride of Britain Awards with TSB celebrate the achievements of truly remarkable people who make our world a better place. This year's award ceremony will be screened Thursday 12th October 8pm on ITV and if you tune in you may see some familiar faces singing on stage too... 

As well as showcasing the best of Britain’s heroes the night was totally star studded! Not only did Marie hang out with national treasure and one of the evening's presenters, Carol Vorderman, but our choir members also found their newest fans in the viral sensation Lad Baby!

We are absolutely thrilled about Marie's award and are enormously proud. So, make sure you tune in Thursday 12th October 8pm ITV!

Click to find out more about our choirs.