Former Blur bassist Alex James has cricitised a music festival promotion company over non-payment of money to a local school.

Kingham Primary School was left £7,000 out of pocket when Big Wheel went into administration after the Alex James Presents Harvest festival was held at the star’s farm in the village in September.

The school, which helped organise Friday night entertainment, hoped to pay a music teacher with the total £14,000 promised.

Mr James said: “I am appalled at Big Wheel’s financial mismanagement of what was a lovely event.

“I was particularly shocked and angered to discover Big Wheel were unable to make the contribution they had promised to support the primary school’s music department.”

He is backing a new concert next month, which organisers hope will raise enough cash to pay for the school’s music teacher.

Mr James said he will attend, and will match the funds raised.

The show will star the Original Rabbit Foot Spasm Band, and singers Krissy Matthews and Beth Thornton.

The concert is at Chipping Norton Town Hall on Friday, December 9.