HUNDREDS of parents and children flocked to a Whitchurch-based school last weekend to attend the first annual Test Fest.

The performing arts festival, held at Testbourne Community School, was attended by more than 500 people who watched as students acted, sung and danced throughout the afternoon.

Performances included live music from classical to more modern day rock'n'roll, as well as a variety of dance and drama shows.

The festival, which was jointly organised between the music department and the parent association, also had a fundraising element with the event raising more than £1,300 towards a musical trip to Spain later this month.

The students will travel to Costa Brava near Barcelona to perform three open air concerts, with Test Fest providing the perfect chance for a last minute warm-up.

Joint organiser and chairman of the Testbourne Parent Teacher and Friends Association, Simon Harrop, said: “This first ever Test Fest was a bit of a trial run, to showcase the talent of the young people in and around our community.

"People really seemed to enjoy themselves and we got great feedback, especially from the students.

“I was amazed at how polished and varied the performances were with something for all tastes.”

Headteacher Ruth Beasley added: “I felt incredibly proud and privileged to be headteacher when I saw so many of our talented students perform.

“The atmosphere was brilliant with so many families coming along to enjoy the afternoon’s entertainment. I think a new Testbourne tradition has been established.”