Pontefract Music Festival trio serenaded market shoppers

Pontefract Market was a tuneful place to be last Saturday when three regular competitors at the festival picked up a guitar.

Aine Cooper, Sarah Stevenson and Lois Hill entertained shoppers while organisers spoke to parents and children to encourage them to take part in the song showcase in late April.

Aine, 12, said: “I really like taking part in the festival, it is great fun. I always enjoy watching the other children perform and I feel it has made me more confident.”

Her mum Natalie Cooper said: “Aine has been taking part in Pontefract Music Festival since she was five-years-old. Standing up in front of a room of people to either read a poem or story, play a musical instrument, sing or act, all these things are great for teaching children confidence and self belief. I would recommend all parents let their children have a go, it’s great fun and is always about taking part not about winning.”

Festival chairman Norman Dale has urged all potential competitors to get their entries in before the deadline closes on January 16.

Pontefract Music Festival is now in its 112th year.

The 2016 version takes place between April 22 and 30.

It offers children and adults of the town and surrounding districts the opportunity to develop a whole range of performance skills.

The festival’s challenge to those taking part is to encourage the ideals of dedication, determination and confidence, and give competitors the opportunity to perform in front of an audience.

For more information about the festival visit www.pontfest.org.uk or contact secretary Brenda Adams on 01977 791087.