It was a grand performance – in every sense – when students and staff presented ‘A Chamber Music Recital’ at The Axe Valley Community College.

To celebrate the arrival of their new piano – a gift from the town’s parish church - they presented a mainly classical repertoire of instrumental and vocal solos, duets and a couple of pieces for the string orchestra and chamber choir. It included music by Mozart, Handel, Vaughan Williams and Satie among many others.

Pride of place went to their grand piano, a new fixture for the main hall, which had previously belonged to The Minster.

The college is extremely grateful to both the Reverend John Streeting and the Axminster Care Service (ACS) for their support and generosity in providing it.

Mr Jonathan Jevons, head of music, offered congratulations to those who took part.

He said: “All of the students who participated performed extremely well.

“Some of the music was very technically demanding but was performed with great panache, style and expression.”

His special thanks also went to staff members Jenny Maby, Yvonne Ashby, Louise Elliott, Margarethe Stuttaford and Amanda McDonagh.

Martin Smith, headteacher, said: “We are delighted with the new grand piano.

“It enables the music department to widen the repertoire of high quality musical events.

“An enormous thank you to Mr Streeting and the trustees of Axminster Care Service for their generous support.”