BUDDING rock stars and an impressive choir of students were out in force in Ipswich as part of Suffolk New College's Festive Fest. The creative arts and media department's concert attracted nearly 300 spectators as well as raising an estimated £500 for the Prince's Trust.

BUDDING rock stars and an impressive choir of students were out in force in Ipswich as part of Suffolk New College's Festive Fest.

The creative arts and media department's concert attracted nearly 300 spectators as well as raising an estimated £500 for the Prince's Trust.

Concert co-ordinator Jo King said about 709 students took to the stage to perform at St Peter's church on Ipswich Waterfront yesterday.

She said: “Many of the students are studying music performance and performing in front of an audience in a venue like this is what it is all about.

“We have had an amazing day and it is a brilliant experience for the students. They have all stepped up their game and become more professional in their approach.”

The concert, which ran all day and culminated in an evening Christmas Extravaganza, included performances by about a dozen college-based rock bands and the inaugural performance by the Suffolk New College Contemporary Choir. Formed by the students, the choir sang Jingle Bells, Frosty the Snowman a lively rendition of It's a Kind of Magic by Queen.

Music lecturer John Whelton said: “It is great to see the students grow in confidence and perform in such a large space. They have worked extremely hard and have learnt about the discipline needed to perform well.”

Student Drew Cable, 17, said: “I'm in a band called Winter Bleeds. We've played heavy metal and we are all in the choir as well. I've loved every minute, there's been a lot of variety in the music performed and everybody has been well rehearsed.”

What did you think of Festive Fest? Write to Your Letters, Evening Star, 30 Lower Brook Street, Ipswich, IP4 1AN or send an e-mail to eveningstarletters@eveningstar.co.uk