THE centre of Cinderford rocked on Saturday afternoon to the sound of talented young drummers.

More than 40 musicians – some as young as eight – took over The Triangle for the second annual Cinderford Drumfest.

They were all students of local drum teacher Jamie Frost and, as well as showcasing their skills, it also raised money for the Keep Drumming Fund which was set up by Jamie to enable young people who are struggling financially to continue lessons or get equipment.

Jamie said: “Some drummers have been with me for 10 years plus, others not even 10 months.”

The students played covers of well-known rock songs, each adapted for the individual with some “toned down” and others having more complex grooves and fills added, explained Jamie.

“Some have never even played on an acoustic real-life drum kit.

“I am so proud of what we heard from the students.”

The students were each presented with a plaque sponsored by Express Windows of Coleford.

The Keep Drumming Fund was set up two and a half years ago and since then it has paid for more than 120 lessons, supplied four drum kits and gear such as sticks, ear plugs and books for exams.

Jamie thanked Ryan Taylor and Ed Mathieson – who were both among the musicians who played on Saturday afternoon – for their assistance in running the showcase.

He also thanked his family, Tom from Grindle's Coaches and Cinderford Town Council for their help in putting on the event.

Students played music by a wide range of groups including AC/DC, Foo Fighters, Nirvana, Royal Blood, The Damned and The Killers.

The showcase was split into three parts with Jamie opening each by playing Know Your Enemy by Rage Against the Machine.

Donations can be made to the Keep Drumming Fund by searching “keep drumming” on www.justgiving.com