TICKETS for a “homecoming” performance by the Colchester Military Wives Choir sold out within three days.

About 470 tickets for an evening of First World War favourites at the Mercury Theatre, Colchester, went on sale on Monday.

Boosted by Network Colchester publicising the event on the back of 18 of its buses, tickets sold out by yesterday morning.

Anja McAnespie, choir member and publicity officer, said it was possible a second night might be organised.

She said: “To say we’re thrilled at this news is an understatement.

“When tickets went on sale there were 100 sold within a couple of hours.

We are delighted the people of Colchester are being so supportive.

“We are honoured to sing for our local community and we are looking forward to many more concerts at such a prestigious venue.”

Mrs McAnespie praised musical director Sally Leung for her tireless efforts with the choir, which formed in 2012 in the aftermath of Gareth Malone’s hit television show Military Wives.

The soldiers’ wives have performed in Westminster Hall, courtesy of MP Sir Bob Russell, and have even performed at the Canadian International Military Tattoo, in Ontario.