CLASSICAL singer Carly Paoli, who has performed for the Pope and alongside superstars such as Hollywood actress Kate Hudson went back to basics on Friday when she was down on the farm in Devizes.

Miss Paoli, who has moved into a ten bedroom mock Georgian home in a village close to Devizes with her parents Paul and Tina, was at Caenhill Countryside Centre to get up close and personal with a variety of animals from goats and pigs to geese and chickens.

She was finding out about the centre after agreeing to perform at a Christmas concert at St John's Church, Devizes on December 21 to raise money for the educational charity.

She said: "As a newcomer to Wiltshire and in particular, Devizes, I was thrilled when a neighbour knocked on the door to enquire if I would be willing to perform a concert to raise funds for Caenhill Countryside Centre.

"I had heard lots of wonderful things about the work at Caenhill and how the centre has helped and touched the lives of so many children and young people by promoting rural crafts and skills.

"Christmas is a time to give back and recognise all the blessings in our lives, so it fills me with joy to be able to share my music with my local area. I hope that by holding the concert, we can do something really special together for Caenhill Countryside Centre.

"I would also like to thank my local community for such a warm welcome to this beautiful area. My family and I certainly don’t feel like newcomers anymore.”

Helie Franklin, project manager for Caenhill Countryside Centre is excited that Miss Paoli will be performing and delighted to welcome her to the centre. She said: “We can’t thank Carly enough for her generosity.

"We’re currently looking to develop a roundhouse to expand the range of skills with an area for rural crafts and music, which we can offer to those we support. The proceeds for the concert Carly is hosting will go a long way to making this dream come true, as well as helping us continue to offer vital support to young people.”

Tickets are available from Devizes Books or by ringing 01380 723698 or 07837568699.

She has also released a charity record My Christmas Dream Is You to support the military charity Soldiering On.