PUPILS did their part to help drum up funds as Testbourne Community School hosted its open-air mini festival, TestFest, last weekend.

The event, organised by the school’s Parent, Teacher and Friends Association (PTFA), raised more than £1,000 in total, as crowds gathered on Saturday afternoon to watch a variety of performances by student musicians, dancers and actors.

The day opened with an arrangement from the TV show Sherlock, followed by a set of authentic Russian folk songs from the Balalaika ensemble, who were dressed in native attire and finished with a Cossack song involving traditional Russian dance.

The woodwind and brass troupes rattled off some classics from musicals and films, before the Bella Voce choir sang a medley of Disney tunes and GCSE music students performed a variety of numbers from the likes of Muse and Billy Eilish.

The Testbourne Youth Theatre also provided an excerpt from a play they have devised called Silent Voices which deals with issues surrounding mental health.

Face painting, a plant sale, a penalty shoot-out and ice cream, popcorn and a barbecue were also on offer throughout the afternoon.

Mr Lester, head of music at Testbourne, said: “A huge thanks to all the PTFA members who organised the event with the music department and helped run stalls and food outlets.

“We are looking forward to the next one on Saturday, June 27 – please save the date.”