MUSIC-making in the Fylde is reaching new heights thanks to Blackpool mayor's charity, Overture.

The scheme will provide musical instruments for schoolchildren whose parents cannot afford to buy their own and many concerts have been arranged to raise cash for the cause.

Schools have also been supporting the charity, including Moor Park Primary School, where pupils have raised £500 for the Blackpool mayor's charity.

They took part in a number of fundraising initiatives, including selling homemade cakes, a non-uniform day and a collection at the school's Christmas production, in aid of Overture.

A concert in aid of the scheme will bring children from throughout Lancashire to Blackpool this Sunday (January 28).

The Empress Ballroom performance includes wind bands, brass bands and orchestras from the county's school music service, playing music from Mozart to John Williams.

Entry at the door is £5 or £2 for concessions and the concert begins at 7.30pm.

Deputy Mayor Eddie Collett said: "Overture has received wide support from the whole community, with many pubs and clubs getting involved.

"I even did an act live on stage at the Tache to help raise money - and Blackpool Football Club have taken collections for the charity.

"It is a very important cause because Blackpool has a great musical heritage which we do not want to lose in the town's schools because of the lack of instruments."

The charity has also applied for money from the National Lottery to top up its collections and Councillor Collett hopes £50,000 will be raised before the end of the mayoral year.

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