PUPILS were in fine voice for an annual music event in Bolton.

About 170 youngsters took part in Sing Day at Victoria Hall on Saturday to raise money for Fortalice, the charity that helps women and children affected by domestic abuse.

They spent the day rehearsing with guest conductor Ula Webber before singing for a crowd of more than 500 in the evening, performing songs including Maleezweh, Ain’t Gonna Let Nobody and We Are The Young.

Trish Hughes, chairman of the Bolton Schools’ Music Association, which organised the event, said: “It was absolutely fantastic.

“The quality of the children’s singing improved during the course of the day and, by the time they got to the concert, they were absolutely superb.”

The day began at 10.30am, with the concert starting at 6.30pm.

The retired teacher added: “We had a fabulous audience who were very appreciative of everything the kids did and really had a good time.

“The guest conductor actually got the parents joining in with one of the songs so they enjoyed that.”

There were also performances from ensembles Soul Patrol, professional singer Helen Wilding and Bolton Junior Youth Choir, led by her mother Susan.

The primary schools which took part were Blackrod, Prestolee, Sharples, SS Simon and Jude, St Gregory’s CE, St Stephen’s Kearsley Moor, Highfield, Mytham, Pikes Lane, St James CE and St Thomas CE, with a handful of pupils from Turton High School.

Teachers from schools across Bolton were invited to bring up to 20 children per school to take part in the event.

The music association supports teachers and pupils in making music and provides opportunities for musicians of all ages.