A NAUTICAL themed concert raised more than £780 for charity.

Maldon Orchestra treated a large audience to an evening of music and laughter with a packed programme of nautical favourites which portrayed “a Life on the Ocean Wave” on Friday last week.

The concert was held at Maldon Town Hall. Sue Woods, Chairman of the Maldon branch of the RNLI said: "The whole evening surpassed anything we had imagined and we had a really great evening.

"More than 90 people attended and with the bar and raffle being generously supported a magnificent sum of £783 was raised.

"It cannot be understated what a dedicated and passionate group of musicians make up the Maldon Orchestra which accepts any amateur musician over 18.

"The welcoming ethos of this orchestra is such that no audition is required, new members just join in and literally learn on the job in a friendly and relaxed environment.

"This obviously works; they play for their love of making music and their standard of performance was outstanding; what is more they do it all for free.

"The RNLI and the Steam Tug Brent Trust will benefit jointly from the £783 raised by this concert and would like to thank the Maldon Orchestra and their soloist who kindly offered to put on this charity fundraising performance and everyone else who supported the event."

Visit www.maldonorchestra.co.uk.