COLOURFULLY-CLAD pupils took part in a music festival that celebrates Portland.

More than 400 students sang a selection of songs as part of the 10th Portland Schools Music Festival at the Weymouth Pavilion.

Youngsters came from Grove Infant School, Southwell Primary School, St George’s Primary School, the Chesil Cove Federation schools and Royal Manor School.

Among the numbers sung by youngsters, who ranged in age from five to 16, were Singin’ in the Rain, Rockin’ All Over the World and I’m A Believer.

They were accompanied by a live band and Portland Rocks gave a performance on their junk band.

Grove Infant School Key Stage One teacher Katherine Hunter said pupils rehearsed the A Song and a Dance production in the morning and then took to the stage in the afternoon. Parents came along to watch the show.

Miss Hunter said: “It was really nice for parents to see their children singing.

“They could see them becoming more confident, really enjoying themselves and taking part in such a big event.”

The event was organised by the Portland Schools Music Association, which consists of music coordinators from each school on Portland.

Miss Hunter added: “The children were all asked to wear different colours to signify that they are all together and they are all from the island.

“I thought it went really well. The children should be very proud of themselves for pulling it off.”

Grove Infant School head teacher Jane Hurdiss said: “It was a fantastic opportunity for children of all ages from all schools to get together and perform together. For some of them it was probably the only time they will perform on a stage.”