A MUSIC charity ended a difficult year on a high with a packed day of live performances.

More than 40 local acts showcased their talents during MuzoAkademy’s 12-hour Christmas Extravaganza at Langdale Hall, Witney, on Saturday.

The charity teaches music to more than 150 people of all ages and abilities, with many performing in front of an audience for the first time.

The event provided a boost to MuzoAkademy, who in September left its previous home, The Rock Barn, in Witney Market Square, after plans to replace the building with flats were approved.

This resulted in a 10 per cent drop in membership and the charity having to cancel its annual Halloween showcase, with The Witney Music Rooms on Church Green its temporary base.

But Jon Berry, chairman of the 7 C’s foundation, which runs MuzoAkademy, believes the successful event will pave the way for a brighter future.

He said: “We are delighted that this community focussed event will bring together the MuzoAkademy students and the wider Witney community to thank them for all their support over the past challenging months.

“There is a renewed energy and passion to promote the MuzoAkademy services to the community.

“We are excited to be building relationships with supportive organisations and planning activities and events throughout 2019 and beyond.”

Witney mayor Brenda Churchill attended the extravaganza, which was staged in partnership with Witney Music Festival and attracted popular local acts.

Students performed in the afternoon before evening sets from local bands such as New Depth, the Dollymops, with ska tribute band The 2-Tone Allska’s headlining.

The charity even brought the old Rock Barn stage out of storage to create a professional performance space.

A double CD of more than 30 Christmas songs recorded by MuzoAkademy students was also released for the event.

In addition to the music, a mini-market offered a range of gifts, Witney-based Windrush Bike Project provided cycling advice and the West Oxfordshire Wheelchair Dance team performed for the crowds.

MuzoAkademy raised critical funds through a raffle full of prizes, featuring donations from local businesses and a star prize of a brand new semi-acoustic guitar.