TEDDY bears were treated to an afternoon of music to help raise money for charity.

Youngsters took their cuddly toys to Colchester Arts Centre to enjoy a concert from the Colne Valley Youth Orchestra.

Music included the Ugly Duckling, Hungarian folk dances, In the Hall of the Mountain King, plus the concert’s namesake, the Teddy Bears’ Picnic.

There was a special performance of Giraffes Can’t Dance, which was written for the event.

Youngsters aged four and over also the chance to have a go at conducting, join in by playing percussion instruments and to sing along.

Nigel Hildreth, Colne Valley Youth Orchestra’s musical director said: “We had a capacity audience.

“We had hundreds of children wanting to conduct and lots wanting to play percussion with the orchestra.

“It is tremendous to see so many parents bringing their children along. We had a least three people who had been in the orchestra now bringing their children.

“It was a fantastic afternoon and I feel it is still an important introduction for young people to live music.”

The event was held in aid of the Colchester Mayor’s charities.

The Colne Valley Youth Orchestra is hosting holiday sessions for youngsters on February 16 and 17 at the Lion Walk United Reformed Church. 

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