More than 400 school children raised the roof, and funds, at the annual Wokingham borough schools concert on Sunday (December 8).

Hundreds of children from 25 local primary schools took part in the event - with more than 1,000 people in the audience.

About £5,000 was raised for Borough Mayor Cllr UllaKarin Clark’s, chosen charity for the year, Building for the Future.

The concert was the biggest yet, with more children, schools and adults taking part.

Mrs Angela Young, headmistress of Keep Hatch Primary, in Ashridge Road, Wokingham, said: “It was absolutely wonderful, the children sang marvellously. We had around 20 children singing from years five and six.

“The children were very excited as it was an actual performance, and I think it’s good for them to get together with children from other schools, and it’s unusual to have a concert that big.” Berkshire Maestros Corelli Orchestra provided the music for the children, who entertained the crowd with festive classics such as Climb Aboard the Train, No Room at the Inn and Santa Claus is coming to town.

Mrs Susan Jones, who part runs the choir at Winnersh Primary School, Greenwood Grove, Winnersh, said: “This was the first time that some of our pupils had sung in a big choir. They worked very hard to learn all the carols and had a wonderful time - it is an experience they will never forget!” Musical director James Baker directed the orchestra, which also performed instrumental pieces such as Christmas Festival and Sleigh Ride.

Victoria Wheeler, teacher at St Pauls C Of E Junior School, Oxford Road, Wokingham, is also the organiser of the school choir.

She said: “It was amazing, it was the biggest concert with the most number of pupils and schools taking part. The sound of 400 children signing was absolutely breathtaking. The orchestra even took time out to show the children the instruments.” Cllr Clark added: “The annual primary schools’ carol concert is a highlight of the civic calendar, and one of the biggest events of the year.

“It is also a time to celebrate the musical talents of the Wokingham Borough’s young people and I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone involved.” The event took place at Loddon Valley Leisure Centre, in Lower Earley.