HUNDREDS of school children again took centre stage last night as the Bolton Schools’ Music Festival continued in style.

The third night of the week-long festival, organised by Bolton Schools’ Music Association, saw primary and secondary schools from across the borough perform a range of individual songs and group ensembles at Bolton’s Victoria Hall.

Each night’s events are kicked off by a different band and leading proceedings yesterday were the Bolton String Orchestra, led by musical directors Sarah Reed and Andrea Jackson.

Following the band’s performance, the packed hall was treated to renditions by school pupils from Blackrod, Blackshaw, Gilnow, Moorgate, Red Lane, St Columbas RC, St Ethelbert’s RC, St Peter’s (Smithills Dean) CE, St Stephen’s (Kearsley Moor) CE primary schools, The Ferns Primary Academy and Rivington and Blackrod High School.

Once again the audience heard a varied range of musical numbers, from golden oldies like Cliff Richard’s ‘Summer Holiday’ to more exotic efforts like The Lion King song ‘Hakuna Matata’, lead expertly by guest conductor for the evening, Elaine Lowe and accompanist Margarette Rutter.

Chairman of the Bolton Schools Music Association Trish Hughes said: “Last night the week continued just how it started, with more outstanding performances by our Bolton schools.

“All the children, who are aged between five and 16 put on a great show and gave us another night to remember.”

The annual music spectacular, which will see a total of more than 2,000 children from 53 schools perform, will continue tonight and on Friday with performances starting at 7pm each night.

For more information visit boltonsma.co.uk.