CHILDREN from schools in Kidderminster and surrounding areas joined in an annual Christmas concert organised by West Midlands Co-operative Society.

Over 400 people attended the concert by pupils from Lickhill Middle School, Wribbenhall Middle School, Stourport High School, Franche First School and the Wyre Forest Young Voices Choir.

Among the invited guests were the Mayor and Mayoress of Kidderminster, Councillor John Stevens and his wife Della, Mayor of Stourport, Councillor Michael Grinall, and Mayor of Bewdley, Councillor Carol Gittins.

The concert, in its fifth year, has become a regular event on the Christmas calendar with the continued support of the community and was, once again, held at Kidderminster Town Hall.

The concert is a platform for local children to entertain and showcase their talents and to celebrate the link between West Midlands Co-op and the community.

Val Weddell Hall, headteacher of Franche First School, said: "All the schools would like to thank West Midlands Co-op for its continued support, not only of the concert but all year round."

David Pinion, Co-op deputy chief executive, said: "Over the years the response from the audience and the children has been fantastic."