FELINE fiddlers raised the roof at a charity violin concert at The Oakwood Centre this week.

A group of 40 young musicians all dressed as cats raised more than £1,000 for Cats Protection with a special performance in Woodley on Saturday evening.

The North Reading Suzuki Group (NRSG) delivered classical tunes composed by Bach and Vivaldi, as well as contemporary favourites by The Beetles.

Helen Hines, director of NRSG, said: “Memorising music allows performers to step away from note reading and immerse themselves in the music at a level that is not always possible.

“It also opens up exciting new avenues to enhance the visual aspect of the show, such as adding movement and dance while playing.

“This has allowed the group to become worldwide pioneers in choreographed violin group performances involving children of such a young age.”

The group are used to working under pressure, having performed for audiences at The Royal Albert Hall, The Hexagon and The Royal Court Theatre in London.

After 12 months of planning and memorising the music, the children of performed in front of a packed crowd and the Mayor of Woodley.

Cats Protection cares for hundreds of vulnerable animals in Wokingham Borough, although the charity relies on the public’s generosity to raise funds.

Councillor Jenny Cheng said: “These are talented young musicians, who played to an exceptionally high standard.

“It is inspiring that such fresh talent, nurtured here in Berkshire, can come together for a good cause.”

Nikki Butcher from Cats Protection added: “It was a wonderful evening and everyone that attended from the charity had a fabulous time.

“There was such dedication from all the children and everyone from Cats Protection of Wokingham would like to say a very big thank you.”