SCORES of young people left Banbury Town Hall spellbound last weekend after a charity concert was put on by their peers.

The 'BYHP Rocks' gig last Friday was organised by local people and featured seven budding musicians aged 10 to 19, playing original compositions and covers to raise vital funds for the Banbury Young Homelessness Project. About 70 people attended on the night.

BYHP head of business Tim Tarby-Donald said: "It was ace. The young musicians were just brilliant.

"Every one of them completely knocked it out of the park. They were so professional and so talented; lots were quite nervous but it didn't show."

About £500 in ticket sales was raised for BYHP, which assists vulnerable young people in housing need to take control over their lives.

The event was set up by local mother-of-two Sarah Lilley as well as a team from BYHP, which is based in Chandos Close.

Performers Lindsey-May Cooper, Katy Jackson, Deslynn Smith, Isaac Stuart, Erin Tiger Lilley, Charlie Leavy and Jake Melles each played four songs on the night, ending with a final number from Mr Melles: a rendition of Abba's Dancing Queen played on the acoustic guitar.

Attendee Rebecca Mileham said: “We really enjoyed the evening on Friday. Such an impressive range of musical talent.”

Mr Tarby-Donald added: "BYHP is very lucky to have supporters like Sarah and these young performers who want to help raise public awareness of the work we do and much-needed funds to help us maintain the range of services we offer.

"This event in particular is special for us as these young musicians are giving of their time to support other young people in Banbury.

"Often youngsters get a bad press but this is a wonderful act of generosity and support for their peers.”