CHILDREN from across Ryedale took part in a special concert at Malton School.

The uplifting sound and spectacle of the Pearl of Africa Children’s Choir from Uganda included joint performances with local schoolchildren over two nights.

Rehearsals took place during the day to teach the primary school pupils and Malton School students, drum rhythms, harmonies and dance steps for the performances of local and traditional Ugandan song

Julian Taylor, music teacher at Malton Schoo, said: “It was another storming performance from this remarkable children’s choir.

"I know Malton students who came to watch on both evenings, for the sheer joy of it.

Mr Taylor added: "Everybody was smiling – not just the choir on stage.The energy and exuberance of these children on stage, who have faced such adversity, can only leave you amazed and inspired”.

The Pearl of Africa Children’s Choir was set up as a charity 10 years ago in Uganda.

They visit England every autumn and perform with schools as well as in churches, market places and shopping centres across the country.

Many of the children in the choir are orphaned and help raise awareness of the funds to help improve the standard of education, healthcare and living standards in their schools.

All proceeds from the two concerts at Malton School were donated to the Pearl of Africa Children’s Choir charity.

Molly Wasswa, co-founder of the charity , said: “The reception we get at Malton School is always so wonderful. The children have had a great time being with the local children here.

She added: They go back to Uganda inspired. Being exposed to another culture they see England is a world apart from their lives, but that people are the same”.