GCC was born in 1980, as a result of a conversation between local businessman Richard Fox and musician John Bawden. John became the choir's first conductor and the pair managed to recruit seventeen singers; professionals, semi-professionals and experienced amateurs for that first concert.

Even during his final illness in 2023, Richard had been singing with us, and continuing to organise our annual Cathedral trips with his meticulous eye for detail. Richard was involved with all sorts of local organisations, and his love of walking will be enjoyed by those who find themselves on the "Fox Way", a 39 mile circular walk centred on Guildford. A generous and kind man, he is hugely missed.