Talent on show at Church Stretton music festival

Church Stretton Musicfest centred around the Rectory Field public park on Saturday.

Eight other venues around the town hosted music and dance performances, workshops and demonstrations, musical instrument have-a-go sessions, as well as exhibitions and stalls as part of the celebrations.

There was also a play area for children with face painting, slides and a bouncy castle.

John Woolmer, one of the volunteer organisers, said: "It was the first time in Church Stretton people were able to listen to more than 200 musicians and actors perform in the open air on a professional stage throughout the day, and on into the evening. On Rectory Field there was outdoor stalls, displays and demonstrations, three Wild Encounter shows that involved free-flying parrots, owls and hawks, as well as a display of exotic pets and animals.

"There was a large stage with professional sound and lighting to showcase music and drama talent that included Ludlow Concert Band, Shropshire Strummers plus a massed ukulele band open to all."

In the evening there was a classical performance of Brahm's Requiem at Church Stretton School, and a rock concert showcasing four local bands.