THREE primary schools have revived traditional folk music.

St Andrew's Primary School in Henknowle, is the venue for the weekly workshops where the youngsters are joined by pupils from Copeland Road and Oakley Cross, in West Auckland.

The project has been backed by Folkworks and aims to bring traditional music back into the classroom.

Headteacher at St Andrew's David Hutchinson, who is one half of popular folk duo Nebula, said the children loved their new hobby.

He said: "They are so enthusiastic about it all. You can see it in their faces when they are taking part. They love it.

"This is a partnership between the three schools and all three headteachers are enjoying working together."

The children are being taught by tutors from Newcastle-based Folkworks to play instruments including the tin whistle, bodhran and guitar. They are also learning clog dancing.

The workshops will continue for two years and it is hoped that the youngsters will be able to show off their new skills to parents at a future show.