Cellist Julian Lloyd Webber has spoken of the importance of music to young people. He was speaking at the opening of a new music school in Dover.

Mr Lloyd Webber, 59, officially opened the Tallis Music School at Dover College on Saturday, January 29.

“It is marvellous that Dover College is putting its faith into music during these cash-strapped times as music has the power to change young people’s lives,” he said.

“I believe it is important that young people should be encouraged to study music and to take up musical instruments.

Among those who performed at the event was former student and talented recorder player Elspeth Robertson, 20, who, like Mr Lloyd Webber, won a scholarship to study at the Royal College of Music.”

Full story and pictures in this week's Dover Mercury.