HUNDREDS of young musicians from across west Wiltshire will come together this summer for a concert to help in the fight against breast cancer.

The event on July 4 will showcase some of the districts' most gifted youngsters at the same time as raising awareness about the disease.

Joel Almeida, chairman of the organising committee, said: "Breast cancer is something which affects one in nine women at some point in their lives. There is a lot that can be done to help.

"This event will bring together young people who care. We want youngsters from all the secondary schools involved."

Each of the schools has been invited to send a group of their most talented musicians to the event, which is being called the Young and Gifted Music Festival.

Dr Almeida said: "There is a wealth of virtually professional-level talent among young west Wiltshire musicians and this music festival will celebrate some of the best talent with an emphasis on lively, danceable music."

Among the schools already signed up are St Augustine's Catholic College and John of Gaunt School in Trowbridge.

The festival is being held in aid of three charities including the Royal United Hospital's Forever Friends Appeal. Money from the event will be earmarked to help pay for state-of-the-art life-saving equipment for the hospital's breast cancer team.

Dorothy House Hospice Care in Winsley will also benefit. The charity receives just one third of its funding from the NHS and relies on donations for the rest.

The Breast Cancer Campaign, which funds research to improve prevention, diagnosis and treatment, will also receive some of the money.

Dr Almeida said: "We are seeking sponsors for the lighting, the programme brochure and publicity flyers and donations of raffle prizes will help the cause greatly."

The event will be held in the Civic Hall, Trowbridge.

Anyone who can help out can email breastbenefit@aol.com or call (01225) 358459.