YOUNG singers have been warming up their vocal chords to take part in a musical project marking 100 years since the start of the First World War.

The project will culminate in up to 300 schoolchildren singing tunes from the musical “Oh What a Lovely War!” in a special concert at Middlesbrough Town Hall.

Already on the frontline as one of the first schools to sign up is St Bede’s of Stockton, whose choir are busy practicing for the big day.

St Bede’s teacher Jo Jones, who leads the choir with teaching assistant Dawn Purton, said 17 of the school’s pupils are eagerly looking forward to learning the songs for the special occasion.

She said: “We didn’t have to think twice before agreeing to take part in the project. It’s such a valuable musical experience for the children.

“The Benjamin Brittan schools concert that Middlesbrough Council organised last year was fantastic, so we are looking forward to this year’s event being even bigger and better.”

Newport Primary in Middlesbrough and Yarm Primary have also signed up for the concert but organiser Rebecca Topping of Middlesbrough Council is calling on more Tees Valley schools to step forward.

She said: “As we approach the centenary, many schools are studying aspects of the Great War, so this is a great opportunity to incorporate a musical element to enliven the children’s learning experience.”

The concert takes place in the main hall of the Town Hall at 4pm on Thursday, July 3. Tickets will be priced just £3.

Schools who would like to sign up for event can contact Rebecca Topping at accompany@middlesbrough.gov.uk