A MUSICAL treat will set the seal on the new year at Kidderminster Town Hall when the baton is raised on a charity concert.

The annual New Year's Day concert, organised by the Lions Clubs of Worcestershire, will feature the music of Johann and Josef Strauss and Franz Lehar played by the Midlands Concert Orchestra.

The event will raise money for the county's air ambulance, Acorns Children's Hospice and Kemp Hospice.

Thespian Graham Orr will compere the evening.

Sarah Browne from Bilston is the orchestra's new musical director and guest soloist will be Judith Horton, who performed at the last New Year's Day concert.

Tickets are available from the town hall, Kidderminster's Swan Centre Management Suite, Stourport Photo Centre or by telephone from the Bewdley Tourist Information Office on 01299 404740.