SOME £270 was raised at the Drybrook and District Ladies Choir 18th bursary concert towards next year’s show.

Audiences enjoyed a varied music programme by this year’s winner Lauren Thornwell from Northwood Green as well as last year’s winner James Owston.

The concert started with the lighting of the bursary candle in memory of the choir’s late conductor Margaret Rose Burford.

Lauren, who is aged 18, split the show in two halves by playing the xylophone first and then the piano.

Jane Toomer, spokes­person for the choir, said: “Lauren was really pleased with her award of £750 as it allows her to travel to Switzerland with the National Youth Wind Orchestra this summer. Lauren is waiting to hear which university she will attend to continue her musical studies.”

Since winning the bursary last year, 19-year-old James from Cinderford has been able to purchase his own double bass.

Jane added: “We were pleased to see James play his new instrument at the concert alongside members of his band.

“It is good to see talented young people progressing through their musical career and, as a choir, we are so pleased to be able to help them. Our grateful thanks go to all who helped us that evening, as well as the audience for attending.”

The Ladies choir sang nine pieces in total and provided the refreshments afterwards.