A MUSIC school in Witney is celebrating after receiving a £500 grant from a local charitable group.

Muzo Akademy, formerly known as Witchwood School of Rock received the money from members ofWitney Round Table.

One of the leaders Sandy Chalmers, who set up the club seven years ago with his brother Aldie, said it was “fantastic”.

He said: “Witney Round Table have been really helpful. We teach music, mainly bands, to all ages, our youngest is four and our oldest is in his seventies.

“This money will go towards buying more music equipment and paying for our energy bills. Those are the main things we need to raise money for.”

Muzo Akademy, which is based next to Bill’s restaurant in High Street, was recently renamed to encourage other people to get involved.

Mr Chalmers said the previous name gave the impression the school only focused on rock music.

The group comes under the charity 7C’s Foundation, which was set up by Mr Chalmers and his brother.

Bands at the academy took part in Witney Carnival in June, and will also be performing at an upcoming local beer festival.

James Condon, of Witney Round Table, said it was a privilege to present the money to the hard-working group of musicians.

The Round Table, open to men up to the age of 40, organises fundraising events to help the community.

Mr Condon, who has been a member for three years, said: “I pretty much have always been into music.

“It’s part of my life. I feel that music can bring people out of their shells and bring happiness to them. It’s also a good way to get children learning and communicating.

“It’s a worthy cause. People go to meet like-minded people, you can learn music in later life, it’s fantastic.”

At the Witney Beer Festival next May, the Round Table and Muzo Akademy will be pairing up to write and perform their own song.