PUPILS in Torfaen put on a moving performance to raise funds for those affected by the earthquakes in Nepal.

Following the terrible effects of two earthquakes on the country, sixth formers at Llantarnam School opened an emergency fundraising initiative and raised £1,000 in two weeks.

Proceeds from the concert, which took place on June 11, have boosted the funds to £3,000.

The concert was the final of its type at the school - which will be closing at the end of term.

Ward councillor Mary Barnett said: “This concert being final proof that at a time of upheaval for staff and students their thoughts and energies have gone into thinking of people living thousands of miles away.”

Amongst the audience were civic dignitaries including the mayor of Torfaen, cllr Giles Davies, the chairman of Cwmbran Community Council, cllr Mike Johnston, former MP for Torfaen, the Rt Hon Paul Murphy, and new Torfaen MP Nick Thomas-Symonds.

The concert was opened by headteacher, Gareth Whitcombe, who introduced Blaenavon Male Voice Choir.

They opened the concert with Rachie, You Are The New Day and Alexander’s Ragtime Band.

Also performing was year 9 clarinettist, Poppy Clough, and bassoon player, year 13 student Matthew Harrison.

Next to take the stage were nine members of Llantarnam School Deaf Choir, who signed to recordings of The Circle of Life (Elton John) and Shine (Take That).

Then followed 14 pupils from years 7 and 8 who are Llantarnam School Taiko Drummers and vocalist Tabitha Clough, from year 10, who performed I Dreamed a Dream (Les Miserables).