THERE was a feast of song and colour as more than 1,000 children packed Victoria Hall to record a live CD.

Children from primary schools across the borough crammed the domed auditorium to record the disc to celebrate the 40th anniversary of Bolton Schools Music Association.

As the youngsters gripped their song sheets, conductor Jane Hampson led the way.

Around 500 children sang five songs in the morning, followed by another 500 with five fresh songs during an afternoon session. Both groups sang a specially commissioned piece called Tree of Friendship, by pianist Lin Marsh who works extensively with young musicians.

Other tracks recorded included As We Grow, written by Alan Woods in memory of group founder member Bessie German and Let's Celebrate, which Ms German and Paul Payton had penned to mark the 25th anniversary of the Association.

Val Deary, aged 57, music co-ordinator for Devonshire Road Primary School, Heaton, and secretary for Bolton Schools Music Association, said: "The association started with a group of dedicated music teachers. It's just grown and grown and is now going strong.

"Credit goes to all the people over the 40 years who have worked so hard voluntarily to arrange these events and give up time to do it.

"Children get so much from it and when they come together to perform, there's nothing better."

Among those enjoying the chance to be a star for the day was Ben Giles, aged seven, from St William of York RC Primary, Great Lever.

He said: "I'm very proud of myself for singing today. I enjoy singing and like listening to Leon Jackson, the winner of X-Factor."

Ben's proud mother, Ann-Marie Giles, said: "I'm absolutely over the moon. This is a great opportunity for the children, and to make a CD is fantastic."

Children filled the stalls and floor space of the hall, while microphones had been strategically placed around the venue to pick up every voice.

Saffron Johnson, aged seven, from Blackrod Primary School, said: "I only started at the school in September and joined the choir straight away. I'm so happy to be here and can't wait to listen to the CD."

The school's music co-ordinator Victoria Wilson said: "I've been involved in music festivals before but it's a real achievement for the BSMA to have been going for 40 years. It's fantastic."

Schools involved were Brandwood Primary School, Daubhill, St Columba's RC, Hall i'th' Wood, Blackshaw Primary School and SS Osmund and Andrew RC, both Breightmet.

The CD, produced in partnership with Bolton Music Service, costs £5 and can be ordered on 01204 333533.