SCHOOLCHILDREN joined forces with choirs from across the community for a special World War One commemorative service.

A unique performance, held in Winchester Cathedral, brought together Hampshire singers of all ages and abilities for the Conflict to Chorus concert.

The Winchester Community Choir stood proudly alongside the Wherwell Singers, King Alfred Singers, Hampshire County Council’s Castle Singers and Singing for Wellbeing – a group which raises awareness for Alzheimer’s.

They were joined by children from Talavera, Fair Oak, Wellington and Durley primary schools and Rosewood special school to sing such traditional favourites as Keep the Home Fires Burning.

New to this year were pieces which integrated wartime sounds with modern day influences from composer June Boyce-Tillman, who conducted the event.

And it wasn’t just the songs which had been given a new twist.

A special percussion instrument, known as Gary the Gunman, stood in the limelight, made from de-commissioned Mal guns, donated by the Winchester rifle museum. The six foot sculpture, which was made to look like a soldier, had an arm made from weaponry which was also a flute.

Coordinator Vicky Feldwick said: “We do a community event every year but we’re trying to make it radically inclusive.

“Anyone can be included, regardless of age of ability.

“It gives the children the chance to sing in a cathedral and, though ticket-sales never meet the cost of putting on the event, it’s good to bring everyone together.”

The performance featured 168 adults, 120 children in addition to the large orchestra and brass band.

See picture special in this week's Hampshire Chronicle, out now.