THE 2003 series of summer lunchtime concerts in St John's Church, Chapel Street, Lancaster gets under way next Thursday, June 5.

Soprano Claire Groom with accompanist Ben Dale on piano launch the eight concert season, which see events taking place every other Thursday in the beautiful St John The Evangelist Church.

Presented in association with the Royal Northern College of Music and the Churches Conservation Trust, all concerts start at 12.45pm and last for approximately 45 minutes. Admission is free but donations are welcome.

The other concerts this summer are - June 19, Nomian Duo; July 3, Phoenix Wind Trio; July 17, Trelights Brass Quintet; July 31,Langdale Ensemble; August 14, Beckham (violins, accordion, bagpipes & saxophone); August 28, Howard Haigh (Spanish guitar) & Guy Morris (guitar); September 18,Gershwin Gang (launch of the Jazz Festival).