CHILDREN in Farnworth were given a drum masterclass by former Status Quo member, Jeff Rich.

Mr Rich gave all the children at St James CE Primary School a lesson in the history and sound of drums when he visited yesterday.

All classes at the Hillside Avenue school got to pick up a percussion instrument, whether maracas or a tambourine and join Mr Rich as he ended the assembly jamming with the children.

Abigail Faulkner, aged 10, said: "I think that was the best music thing we have done in this school."

Seven-year-old Alicia Rosa, enjoyed the musical session too, adding: "I'm going to start playing the piano soon, I already know a few tunes."

Mr Rich began touring schools after he left Status Quo and reckons he has visited 6,500 schools.

He said: "I love inspiring them and hopefully they will go on and think about picking up a musical instrument."

To find out more about Mr Rich's drum masterclasses visit jeffrich.co.uk.