HUNDREDS of youngsters wowed a sold out Charter Hall in a one-night-only performance.

A total of 400 children from primary schools across Colchester took part in the 65th Colchester Schools’ Music Festival.

This year’s theme was Inspire, so children sang Pharrell Williams’ Happy, Abba’s I Have a Dream, Wish Upon a Star as well as S Club 7’s Reach For the Stars, which lent itself to some participation from the 800 strong audience.

But the kids’ favourite number was dramatic Power is Me.

Sally Leung, who is head at Montgomery Infant School and has organised the festival for the last 27 years, said: “It was just a fantastic evening.

“It really is a lovely thing to do.

“What drives me is 400 children singing on stage together in their love of music.

“The joy on their faces as they perform to their parents is priceless.”

Mrs Leung, who has been involved in the festival for 36 years, added for many children, the festival is their first taste of music and “they just love it”.

Today's Gazette includes a four-page picture special from the event. Order your copy now by emailing deliveries@nqe.com