THE Horwich Festival wowed crowds with a host of harmonies and scores of singers.

It's the first time in two years that the vocal section has been staged at the festival, due to a lack of entrants.

But on Saturday, more than 150 people raised their voices at Lord Street Primary School, performing solos, duets and choral works, in a varied programme which ranged from opera to pop.

Festival organiser Mark Perks said: "I'd like to thank all those who entered this year, not only for reviving the vocal festival but also for making it such an enjoyable one.

"I look forward to making the event even bigger next year and would encourage any budding singers to take part in what has been a successful festival."

Adjudicator Frank Salter awarded seven honours certificates, as well as eight distinctions, nine merits and six achievements, in the high quality festival.

An open competitive class was also re-introduced with Sue Mallet's operatic performance beating Katherine Shore to first place.

Festival secretary Ian Ronson revealed that so many people packed into the hall to see the performances, organisers were nearly forced to shut the doors.

He added: "It was wonderful to hear the youngsters' voices. There were some great performances and we've now got a burgeoning vocal section.

"We hope that we will be able to build on this year-on-year."

Dozens of musicians also performed in the festival's Instrumental and Piano sections on the same day.

A Speech and Drama Festival and Poetry section is planned later this year. Anyopne who is interested should contact 01204 697975.

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