MORE than 200 bright and talented young people provided further proof here that Bolton is building a considerable reputation for music-making.

Representatives of more than 40 schools -- aged between seven and 19 -- were brought together by the council's music service for a splendidly festive event.

About 300 tickets were snapped-up quickly and there is already talk of putting on two performances next Christmas.

This year's inaugural event was organised in aid of the Mayor of Bolton's charity fund.

Afterwards the Mayor, Cllr Peter Finch, spoke for everybody when he said: "No wonder it is a sell-out -- it's fantastic."

The music was great and so were the logistics of dealing with so many eager performers.

We heard delightful music from Bolton Junior Youth Orchestra (Musical Director Carolyn Baxendale), Bolton Junior Youth Choir (Susan Wilding), Bolton Girls' Choir (Jacqueline Tinniswood), Bolton Youth Orchestra (Paul Payton) and Bolton Youth Choir (Jane Hampson).

The overall atmosphere was helped by the cheerful sight of instruments be-decked with tinsel and young musicians wearing appropriate Santa hats.

Serious Christmas music was intermingled with what Mr Payton, Head of Musical Services in Bolton, described as "the more tacky elements."

Be that as it may, it was a very pleasant evening indeed in the company of angels from the realms of Bolton.

We even got the chance to sing a few carols. Alan Calvert

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