CLASSICAL music combined with a tasty lunch will both be on offer at the mayor of Colchester's next fundraiser.

Virtuoso cellist Orlando Jopling will be performing at Lion Walk Church on Thursday, July 7 at the Classic Lunch event organised by mayor Julie Young.

As well as the performance by Mr Jopling, who is also credited as the inspiration behind the Roman River Festival, a meal will be prepared by clients of homelessness charity Beacon House, which is one of the good causes Mrs Young has chosen to help during her mayorship.

Mrs Young is looking forward to the event and believes the concert will be well worth the £17 ticket price.

She said: "This event sums up my theme for the year of making changes.

"We are combining classical music with a traditional lunch provided by the clients of Beacon House.

"It is a case of the homeless feeding the homed and was an idea that came from Beacon House’s chief executive, Vivienne Wiggins.

"It gives the clients a sense of self-worth and a huge confidence boost and, best of all, the food tastes amazing.

"I am so grateful to Orlando for giving his time free of charge to play some wonderful classical music.

"How often do you get to hear an award winning cellist and have a hot, cooked meal all for just £17 and help some great, local charities into the bargain?

"Tickets are selling fast so I would encourage people to book now for this unique event."

The concert runs between noon and 2pm and tickets are available by searching for Classic Lunch on eventbrite.co.uk

As well as Beacon House, Mrs Young's chosen charities for the year are Sign Post, Open Road, The Rob George Foundation and The Invicta Foundation.