A FESTIVAL showcasing young musical talent reached its crescendo on Friday night.

Victoria Hall was packed to the brim for the final night of the Bolton Schools' Music Festival to 'raise the roof '.

More than 800 proud parents, children and teachers attended the event which is organised the Bolton Schools's Association and is celebrating its 48th year.

Pupils from St Stephen & All Martyrs CE Primary School, Leverhulme Community Primary School, St Mary's Horwich RC Primary School and St Catherine's Primary Academy were among the 11 schools from across the town which performed magical melodies conducted by Helen Elliott.

Songs range from classics to Disney favourites, including Sound of Music, Gospel Medley, a medley from the musical Annie, I Just Can't Wait to be King, In Harmony and Count on Me.

Following the opening with the National Anthem there was a programme of pieces by New Century Strings.

A number of massed choir performances featured songs including A Certain Kind of Imagination, Wish and Star Gazing, and closed the show with Ever Wonder?

The concert marked the end of the five-day programme which has featured more than 400 school children and Bolton youth choirs, orchestra and bands.

Bolton Schools' Music Association Chairman Val Deary said:"The last night, like every night, was good. We've seen some wonderful music this week and the final evening was no exception.

"The children raised the roof. All the songs were different, you couldn't compare them or pick a favourite.

"It has been made such a good week by all the hard work of the teachers, children and schools, and our conductors and accompanists and everything that went on behind the scenes."