DARREN Day and Anthea Turner were the star attractions at a gala evening last Friday which raised more than £2,000 for new arts facilities at Evesham school.

The two personalities donated their time for free following a request from one of the school's governors and proved a hit with audience and performers from Prince Henry's High School.

Anthea Turner travelled from London to compere the event at Evesham Arts Centre, impressing organisers with her professionalism.

Assistant head teacher Veronica Most said: "I've got to take my hat off to her, she was so polished.

"She only arrived half an hour before but was completely in control and wonderful with the children."

Darren Day came down from Manchester to provide a show-stopping finale with a medley of classic musical numbers.

Mrs Most said of his performance: "It was absolutely spot-on.

"His voice was incredible, it filled the auditorium."

She added: "Both Darren and Anthea were wonderful. They were so nice to the children and helped make the evening really special. We're so grateful to them - they both travelled for four hours to be here and didn't charge a penny."

The stars were joined by past and present Henricians who showed off a wide range of artistic talents.

Performers included the school's award-winning trumpet quartet, the jazz quintet and Vale Young Musician of 1991 James Felton . Acting talent came from Dorry Chalk and Richard Bond while other students performed dances choreographed by year 12 student Emma Smith.

Charlotte Cainey returned from the Northern Ballet to dance a number and recent old Henrician Josie Korner, soon to record her first album, sang two songs.