PERSHORE students got a taste of Africa this week when a special guest hosted a workshop at the high school.

Zambian music teacher Goodson Mbewe was visiting the area to promote links between the communities and schools of Pershore and Ndola, his own town in the Zambian Copperbelt. Using a variety of traditional musical instruments, stories and songs, Mr Mbewe was able to tell pupils about life in his country.

Mr Mbewe said: "Music in Zambia plays a major role in the life of an individual. All the traditional activities of daily life are passed on through a variety of musical forms."

Workshops were also held at some of the first schools in the area. Pupils from Pinvin, Wyre Piddle and Upton Snodsbury all took part. This evening children from Fladbury CE First School will take part in a special show to celebrate the event. Audiences will be taken on a musical journey through the life of a Zambian villager.

Pershore High School head teacher Clive Corbett said: "We want our pupils to understand more about Zambia's culture and traditions. It is important that the young people make the link."

Anyone interested in linking their school or local group with Zambia should contact Steve Curtis on 01386 860432 or 07887 953909. He can also be emailed on steve.curtis@sapagroup.com.