THE air was filled with the sound of song as the annual Bridport MusicAthon took place.

The annual event showcases musical acts from the best up and coming choirs to some of the most experienced musicians performing for the crowds.

Music was performed from 9am to 4pm on Saturday at Bridport United Church.

The event also raises money for local charities, with the two nominated ones this year being the Richard Ely Trust and CLIC Sargent, and it is hoped the event will raise more than £1,000 when sponsorship money is finalised.

Jo O’Farrell, an event organiser, said it was a great success.

She said: “The whole day went very, very smoothly and it was pretty busy especially in the morning.

“Everybody seemed to be pleased and it seemed that everyone was having a good time. The acts we had on were good as well and kept people entertained.

“The original inspiration behind it was to offer children and up and coming musicians a platform to perform and it is still like that but we do have more experienced singers.”

The event kicked off at 9.30am with Ruth Jenkins and Harry Brown taking to the stage. They were followed by Broadoak Choir and throughout the day a number of choirs, some from local schools such as Loders, performed.

Singers from the University of the Third Age also sang., for what was their first performance as a group.

There was also performances from Rock Island Skiffle Group, Living Tree’s Rising Voices Group, guitarist Harry Britton, the Bridport Chamber Orchestra and many more.

Mrs O’ Farrell added: “We hope the event raised a lot of money for charity. Our target was £1,000.

"We have already raised £670 and we think there is a lot more to come in through sponsorship. The money raised will be divided between the two charities.”