A “PHENOMENONAL” choir has signed a multi-album deal with the world’s largest record company.

Rock Choir, which has one of its bases in WGC, has signed a �1m deal with the Universal record label, home to Lady Ga Ga, Take That and The Rolling Stones.

Set up in 2005, the contemporary choir – which appeared on BBC Breakfast and The Paul O’Grady Show last year – embraces pop, gospel and Motown feel-good songs.

Singer Pippa Gearing, who leads the WGC Rock Choir – which rehearses at Monk’s Walk School in Knightsfield – is delighted to be part of the choir’s first album.

The 30-year-old, of Old Hatfield, said: “We are so thrilled by the news.

“The choir was only introduced to the area last year and already we have achieved so much.”

The first album will feature 1,000 members’ voices.

Set for release later this year, songs will include Something Inside So Strong, Can’t Hurry Love, Dancing in the Street, and Anytime You Need a Friend.

Choir director Caroline Redman Lusher said: “Being offered a record deal is symbolic of the standard and reputation that Rock Choir has grown to in the UK.

“To offer the members the opportunity to experience being on an album that will be released worldwide is extraordinary.”

She added: “Rock Choir is a fairytale story in itself.

“The members are fantastic, from all walks of life and all generations, from age six through to teenagers and adults.

“I am so very proud of all of them.”

Nick Patrick, a music producer who has worked with the likes of Katherine Jenkins and Russell Watson, has been working on the album.

He said: “I am thrilled to be working alongside Caroline on such a prestigious record contract like this.

“She has built a rapidly expanding business that holds a unique place in Britain.”

Tom Lewis, head of A&R for Decca Records (the Universal label releasing the album) described the choir as a “phenomenon”.

He added: “Decca is proud to be working with Rock Choir to release what I believe is the feel-good album of the year.”

WGC Rock Choir rehearses on Mondays at the school in Knightsfield from 6.30pm until 8pm, and again from 8pm until 9.30pm.

For more information about joining the choir, call 01252 714276.