BUDDING rockstars got their first taste of performing live when they took part in a special jam session at a shopping centre.

All Star Rock School teamed up with Lion Walk Shopping Centre to host a Rock Up Shop in Colchester town centre.

Students performed some rock classics for shoppers, while the public also had the chance to have a go on some of the group’s instruments.

Natalie Cooper, who founded All Star Rock School with partner Trevor Wheatley-Perry, said: “We were really pleased with the turn out.

“The students had a fantastic time. A lot of them had not performed in public before, so it was really good for them to have a chance to do so.

“There were a couple of young girls who were shaking and hiding behind their parents at first, but then they were belting out the songs on stage after a while.

“Lots of members of the public stopped to watch and it was really heartwarming to see.”

“We had no idea how many kids would want to play with the equipment but we had lots of people in all day.

She added: “It is a big undertaking, but we would definitely like to do it again.

“Lion Walk have been fantastic, they loved the idea and have been keen for us to do it.”

For more information about All Star Rock School, visit allstarrockschool.com.