AROUND 200 local schoolchildren showed their musical talent in a charity concert.

Young people from the South Monmouthshire Music Centre performed in the Chairman of Monmouthshire (Council) showcase concert.

The concert raised £300 for Councillor Brian Hood's charities, Help for Heroes and the Samaritans.

It was held at Caldicot Leisure Centre and featured performers from Archbishop Rowan Williams, Caldicot Green Lane, Castle Park, Durand, Magor, Rogiet, Undy and Ysgol Gymraeg y Ffin primary schools and Caldicot and Chepstow comprehensive schools.

Children from Magor voluntary aided school performed on Japanese taiko drums while Rogiet primary pupils demonstrated the progress they have made with the trombone since starting to learn in September.

The Chepstow School saxaphone quartet performed two pieces and the Monmouthshire music centres combined senior strings played a variety of pieces.

The Monmouthshire combined schools choir featured singers from Archbishop Rowan Williams, Caldicot Green Lane, Castle Park, Durand, Magor, Undy and Ysgol y Ffin. Each school also had a soloist.

The concert also featured the combined senior wind band, the Monmouthshire cello quintet and the county big band.

Councillor Hood said: "The performances have been absolutely magnificent and I'm delighted that the concert has also raised £300 for my charities.

"The dedication of the Gwent Music Support Service is matched by the support of parents and friends in giving their sons and daughters the 'behind the scenes' help by transporting them and their equipment to rehearsals."