SOUTH Wiltshire school children are set to make Salisbury International Arts Fesival history as they feature in its first ever broadcast-only event.

Harnham Junior, Kiwi Primary, Manor Fields and Shrewton Primary schools joined others from across the county to take part in the project, which is inspired by the long-running BBC radio series, Singing Together.

The new radio play co-commissioned by the festival and Prime Theatre is being broadcast by BBC Radio Wiltshire on Monday, 11am.

It is the story of a choir of Second World War evacuees. 

The broadcast-only event is part of the festival’s Learning and Participation Programme, which offers arts opportunities to people of all ages in Salisbury, Wiltshire and beyond.

Since January, children from the 15 schools have learned nine folk songs from Britain’s musical heritage, including old favourites such as Cockles and Mussels, The Skye Boat Song and Scarborough Fair.

Playwright Vicky Ireland, MBE worked with Julie Davis, Community History Advisor at Wiltshire and Swindon History Centre to include regional settings that actually hosted young evacuees. The play’s South West locations include Avebury, Wroughton, Cricklade, Durrington and Salisbury.

Director of Singing Together Ben Occhipinti “We have such a wonderful time bringing well-loved songs to today’s children. The enthusiasm and energy they’ve given to each one will make this a moving and memorable project for listeners young and old.”

The arts festival and Prime Theatre have provided professional singing leaders for each school.

The radio play also featurea both professional actors and members of Prime’s Youth Theatre.

Harnham Junior School teacher and choir leader Jon Bunn, said: “The project is a truly magical experience for our children to ‘sing together’ with a mass of young voices, and, at the same time, learn more about the musical heritage of the British Isles. We love everything about it.”

Manor Fields School deputy headteacher Jane Fielding, added: "Our Year 5 children loved learning and singing the songs together. Taking part in the recording session with other children was a wonderful experience. As one of our children said 'I thought it was really inspiring and I was proud to have sung'."

Toby Smith, the director of Ageas Salisbury International Arts Festival, said:“This project is a digital first for us all. We’re thrilled we can share it even further with a BBC radio broadcast and for a whole month on iplayer.”

Songsheets are available from salisburyfestival.co.uk