A RARE opportunity to hear Bach's Christmas Oratorio by candlelight is available in Hereford next month.

The work consists of six parts – originally intended for performance separately on the six principal feast days between Christmas and Epiphany.

The performance will be given by the boys and men of Hereford Cathedral Choir, and the period-instrument orchestra Marches Baroque.

The performance is directed by Geraint Bowen, Hereford Cathedral’s director of music and tickets for the event, which will take place on Saturday February 1 at 7pm in Hereford Cathedral, are priced at £25 and £18.

They are available from the Cathedral Shop, Outback Records on Church Street, Hereford and from the Perpetual Trust office by calling 01423 374261.