ON a night when millions of people stayed at home to discover who shot Eastender Phil Mitchell, it was perhaps surprising that hundreds turned up at the Albert Halls last night.

But there was just as much excitement to be gained on the final night of Bolton music Service Presents than any contrived TV plotline.

For this was a night when Bolton's depth of music talent shone like a lighthouse.

And you had to admire the youngsters who took part in what turned out to be a night to remember.

Bolton Youth Wind Ensemble began proceedings, directed by Martin Kay, with renditions from Phantom of the Opera and The Godfather.

That was closely followed by St Thomas of Canterbury RC Primary School Choir, beautifully singing a number of songs which would sit well on any young child's CD player.

Farnworth and Deane Junior String Ensemble showed their expertise with violins despite a slight problem with the PA system.

And the first half was expertly rounded off with four songs by the Bolton Junior Youth Choir -- although I fully appreciate why the songwriter of Tombe, the first of the choir's choice of songs, decided to remain anonymous.

The second half started strongly with St Joseph's RC High School Gamelan Ensemble, a percussion band overseen by musical director Ian Bamford.

They were followed by Bolton Youth Flute Choir and, finally, Bolton Youth Orchestra, both also matching the class of the preceding acts.

All in all it was a storming night of musical entertainment. And as for Eastenders? There's always the video, I suppose . . . David Crookes