YOUNG musicians raised the roof at a Christmas concert at the Last Drop Village Hotel.

More than 400 people turned out to watch the performances from the 11 different ensembles from the Bolton Music Centre.

The annual Concert Bands Christmas Awards featured four bands including the Bolton Beginner Concert Band, Bolton Junior Concert Band, Bolton Intermediate Concert Band and Bolton Youth Concert Band.

The four percussion ensembles also showcased talent from the beginner, junior, intermediate and youth performers as well as the youth flute choir, the youth clarinet choir, and the Chimney Pots.

The Mayor of Bolton, Cllr Colin Shaw, presented the player of the year awards to the young musicians.

The concert, which was broadcast live on the web, opened with Bolton Intermediate Concert Band’s version of Adele’s ‘Rolling in the Deep’, ‘Soul Bossa Nova’ and ‘Skyfall’.

Headteacher of Egerton Community Primary School, Sam Mitchell, said: “This is the first time I have seen ensembles from Bolton Music Service performing, and the concert was stunning.

"The youngsters performed exceptionally well, and have clearly worked extremely hard to reach the standards they have.

"We have a number of Music Service teachers who visit Egerton School, and we really value the musical education that they are able to provide our pupils.”

Julie Hilling, MP for Bolton West, added: “This has been a brilliant year for young people and music in Bolton. The accomplishment and commitment of the students shows the quality of talent in the borough. Much of this is down to the dedication of the Music Service staff, the music tutors and the parents and guardians who all provide tremendous support to these young people.”