YOUNGSTERS from across the region will be performing alongside top stars in a charity concert at the Royal Albert Hall this weekend.

Sixty pupils from Stagecoach Theatre Schools at Northallerton, Darlington, Durham, Guisborough, Hart-lepool, Middlesbrough, Newcastle and Yarm will perform in the concert on Sunday, to raise money for Reach Out to Africa.

Sir Cliff Richard, Gabrielle, Uri Geller and Boney M will all be performing in the concert, organised by singer Patti Boulaye.

She founded the Reach Out to Africa charity to raise cash to build clinics and raise awareness in the fight against AIDS, HIV and malaria.

The North-East and North Yorkshire pupils will be among 1,500 young people from Stagecoach schools nationwide, who will join a 3,000-strong gospel choir.

Patti said: "I have seen Stagecoach perform at several major events and am impressed by their professionalism, which is truly outstand- ing.

"It's absolutely wonderful news that Sir Cliff has agreed to perform. I'm sure this is going to be a very moving event."

The Stagecoach youngsters hope to raise £50,000 through sponsorship at the concert.