WOMAD festival was kickstarted by dozens of Malmesbury schoolchildren on Thursday night as they spurred into action alongside a world-famous folk group for the annual opening event.

Hundreds of proud parents were in the crowd on the opening night to watch their children from Malmesbury School, Lea and Garsdon School, Minety School and Brinkworth Earl Danby’s School launch the world festival alongside folk quintet Sheelanagig with a stunning performance of the arts.

“My ten-year-old twins Pippa and Charles from Malmesbury Primary also loved being part of the dancing,” said mum Jo Hibbard. “Sheelanagig were brilliant, taking the time to be with them as were the teachers from all the schools.

“Charles said to me at about 9pm: ‘Mum do you know what? WOMAD has made my dream come true. I want to do it all again!”

The Malmesbury Project children, who have dedicated several weeks to rehearsing their performance, were also joined by several sixth form pupils, who helped choreograph the performance and reassure them on the night.

“My daughter Lily, who is at sixth form at Malmesbury School, got the opportunity to help choreograph and lead the younger students,” Gabrielle Peers-Dent said.

“It is an amazing opportunity for students of all ages to work alongside professionals and develop their confidence and skills.”

The Malmesbury Project, which has provided unique opening experiences for the last ten years, also creates memorable experiences for the hundreds of children who take part.

“It was a fantastic opportunity for the kids and Sheelanagig really shared their passion for music and inspired them,” mum Nicky Florence, who supported her 12-year-old daughter Eloise from Malmesbury School, said.

“Eloise played violin and had an amazing time and she was buzzing after the performance.”