LITTLE ones were mesmerised by an orchestra which told fairytales through music.

The London Symphony Orchestra brought magical fun to Marks Tey Village Hall, and plenty of youngsters turned up with their families.

Children up to five years old enjoyed listening, dancing and singing their way through the concert as five professional musicians brought Little Red Riding Hood to life.

The show was hosted by Roman River Music and led by London Sym - phony Orchestra’s early years specialist Vanessa King.

Laura Davison, learning and participation leader for Roman River Music, said: “We had about 90 children at each session, it was really fabulous.

“For the children to hear live music and see the instruments for the first time, it was wonderful.”

The Roman River Festival, which is now in its 18th year, sees a variety of performers come together at unexpected and informal venues in Colchester and north-east Essex each year for the three-week event.

More well-known venues, such as the Mercury Theatre and Colchester Arts Centre, play an important role