THE RECORDER may have an image as instrument for schoolchildren but this group of enthusiasts has an average age of 70.

The Chepstow University of the Third Age recorders performed at St Mary's Church last week in the Wednesday lunch-time concert.

There was a surprise for concert-goers when the theme from the radio series Housewives' Choice was played.

Member Judith Wells stepped out as a Mrs Mop, complete with overalls, curlers and feather duster, "cleaning" the church and the audience in time to the music.

Recorder tutor Moira Fraser-Hook said: "The recorder has a reputation for being an instrument played badly and generally out of tune by schoolchildren before they move onto a 'proper' instrument.

"According to the feedback we received after the concert, our group did a lot to dispel that common theory."

When the group was formed, about five years ago, the members were musical novices.

Mrs Fraser-Hook added: "Most people think there is only one size of recorder but, in fact, the family boasts 10 different sizes.

"When play together in a consort, recorders sound rather like a chamber organ.

"The difficulties and technique involved to play the recorder well equal those techniques required to play any other instrument well."

For the lunch-time concert the group played music from the 14th century to the present day.

The lunch-time concerts are organised by St Mary's Church and give people the opportunity to hear local music.

They are held throughout the summer. For more information visit http://www.johnlesterlunchtime">www.johnlesterlunchtime

concerts.com