FOUR Radcliffe schools took part in the annual Children of Bury concert as part of a nationwide tour of Charlie!

The Jacobite Invasion of Lancashire.

St Andrew's CE, St John's CE, Radcliffe Hall CE and Chapelfield primary schools were among some 500 children from 19 schools to perform at Castle Leisure Centre, Bury, to tell the tale of Bonnie Prince Charlie and the Jacobites.

The musical paid tribute to the men who died in 1745 after Prince Charles Edward Stuart led an army of 5,000 Highlanders into England, marching through Lancashire.

The musical, commissioned by the Vivace Charitable Trust, premiered last year in Wigan with help from the Wigan Culture and Leisure Trust. The Trust sent copies of its music to schools across the North West and Midlands to create a tour of more than 1,000 young performers.

Chapelfield Primary's musical co-ordinator Hilary Lang said: "The audience was very responsive to the performances and both nights were a great success."

The Vivace Trust was set up seven years ago and has organised 76 concerts across the North West to encourage children to become involved in music. It is currently premiering its latest musical, The Pride of Coal, in Wigan throughout April.

Anyone wanting to make a donation to help the work of The Vivace Charitable Trust, can call 01942 521 670 or write to 17 Scott Avenue, Hindley, Wigan, WN2 4DG for more information.

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The Singer of Songs, Siobhan Brennan (15), from St Gabriel's RC High School, takes to the microphone. (bur200401468)

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Conductor Valerie Tottey, the Musical Director to Vivace, gives an entusiastic performance. (bur200401469)

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Rehearsal time for a handful of the Children of Bury singers. (bur200401470)

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Concentrating on hitting the high notes are a group from one of the 19 schools to take part. (bur200401471)

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Adding some movement to the music as the youngsters perfect each song. (bur200401472)

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More than 500 youngsters took part in the musical productions across the two nights. (bur200401473)

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Children from Heaton Park Primary School, Whitefield, practise their musical scales. (bur200401474)

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Conductor Valerie Tottey and the children have one last rehearsal before showtime. (bur200401475)