VICTORIA Hall will be alive with the sound of music this Christmas.

The historic hall is staging a concert featuring much loved festive tunes.

David Tomlinson, from the Victoria Hall, said: "Following their successful concert last year the Friends of Victoria Hall are pleased to welcome back for a Christmas Festival of Light Music with

Manchester Light Orchestra.

"Manchester Light Orchestra aims to bring audience the very best in light music from across the world. With familiar tunes and toe tapping numbers , played by some of the region's most exciting performers."

Audiences can enjoy music from the Nutcracker, Slipper and the Rose as well as other seasonal favourites including a Christmas sing-a-long.

David said: "Alex is a graduate of the Royal Northern College of Music and has a passion for Light Music.

"He has worked as assistant conductor with both the BBC Philharmonic and Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestras.

"In addition to working with some of the countries wind and brass bands /ensembles, he has made recordings for BBC Radio and Television as well as toured to the USA, Far East and Europe."

The orchestra will be conducted by Alex Webb.

Among those performing in the concert will be Matthew Chadbond.

David said: "Bolton born ,educated at Canon Slade and Bolton Music Service started playing the violin aged nine and went on to lead orchestras such Bolton Youth Orchestra , Greater Manchester Youth String Orchestra and the Halle Youth Orchestra.

"Matthew recently graduated with a first class honours degree from Royal Northern College of Music and is now enjoying a busy and varied freelance career with orchestras."

The concert is one of a number taking place at the Victoria Hall over the festive period to get people into the Christmas spirit

The concert will take place on December 8 at 3.30pm.

The night before Bolton Cancer Voices will add sparkle and cheer to festive preparations with a treat for the whole family with a magical concert of heart-warming yuletide favourites

Special guests on the night will be talented and popular Besses Boys' Band;The Cottontown Chorus and compere Dr Kevin Jones

Tickets and more information is available from Victoria Hall Box office which is open Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 10am till 2pm and Saturday 10am till noon or by phone on 01204 522569.