Young choir delights audience

The school's 36 pupils faultlessly performed the singing version of the Lord's Prayer at the annual civic service held by the chairman of Arun District Council. They were conducted by their headteacher, Mary Ramaciotti.

She said the touching performance had made her proud of the seven to 11-year-old children. 'They were not a specific choir. We included every child who wanted to take part,' she explained.

'I've had so many lovely comments about the children's singing. One card described it as wonderful with voices which were clear and musical in a delightful performance.'

Mrs Ramaciotti arranged the tune from words and music by Peter Jackson. It was the school's first appearance at the service.

The school was invited to perform at Sunday'sservice by Arun's chairman, Cllr Stephen Haymes, who represents Yapton.

He had been moved by their performance at a recent showcase concert at Chichester Festival Theatre for young people.

More than 100 members of the public braved torrential rain to join dignitaries and special guests for his service.

Its theme was life and love to celebrate the work of the Chestnut Tree House children's hospice to reflect its choice as Cllr Haymes's chosen charity.

A collection at the end of the service raised 536 for the Poling-based charity.

The service was led by the Rev Richard Hayes, the rector at St Mary's Church in Yapton. Readings were given by Cllr Haymes, Arun chief executive Ian Sumnall, Arun Youth Council chairman Simon Filler and Hugo van Driel, of Yapton Free Church. Cllr Haymes said: 'I was delighted to see so many people attend on the day to share this special service with me.'

The hospice's head of community fundraising, Lesley-Anne Lloyd, said they were grateful for the support of Cllr Haymes.

'Stephen has generated so much support from everyone at the district council,' she stated.