Solid Harmony, the Newham-based youth community choir, have just shared the Royal Festival Hall stage with top gospel performers.

The 35-strong singing group, based at Newham Sixth Form College (NewVIc) and run by former music teacher Jane Wheeler, was founded nine years ago.

The choir performed at the Metropolitan Black Police Association concert alongside top acts including former Basement Jaxx lead singer Sharlene Hector and stars of the UK gospel scene Muyiwa and Riversongz who have recently completed a sell-out show at the O2 Indigo arena and a UK tour.

The choir set the atmosphere for the whole concert. David Jones, of organisers Serious Ltd, said they had launched it off “like a rocket!” adding: “The choir’s combination of style, quality and imagination makes them a complete delight to work with!”

Rachel Bradbear, creative arts co-ordinator at NewVIc, said: “It was an amazing evening and I was both moved and proud of the quality, skill and performance level as well as the professionalism of the group.”

The concert was hosted by award-winning comedian, writer and actor Felix Dexter, of the The Fast Show and The Lenny Henry Show.

The theme for the evening was “Celebration of Life” in support of the Revival anti-violence campaign.