A musician from Marlborough who set up a virtual orchestra bringing together more than 300 musicians for concerts conducted entirely from her kitchen has received Prime Minister Boris Johnson’s Points of Light award.

Nicola Ashton, who lives in Cherhill, started her Virtual Symphonies project as a way of getting together online with a group of local musicians to play all nine of Beethoven's symphonies.

The popularity of their performances saw musicians from across the UK and internationally taking part, enabling them to share music with one another at a time when orchestras, bands and choirs are unable to rehearse and perform in person due to coronavirus restrictions.

Nicola and the Virtual Symphonies Orchestra have also been raising money through their performances for charities including MIND and Cancer Research UK.

In a personal letter to Nicola, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said: “I was inspired to hear of your symphonic success in bringing together hundreds of musicians to mark the 250th anniversary of Beethoven’s birth.

“Your new, virtual orchestra helped to keep the music playing in a safe and Covid secure way, while also raising vital funds for fantastic charities such as MIND and Cancer Research UK. Until your orchestra is able to meet again in person, I hope you continue conducting from your kitchen!”

Reacting to the Prime Minister’s announcement, Nicola said: "The Virtual Symphonies project has been an absolute joy over the past year. Music is such a vital part of life for so many people and can make an incredible difference to mental health in difficult times.

"I was really surprised and absolutely delighted to receive this award, and would like to thank every single one of the amazing musicians – their enthusiasm and friendship has helped to bring music back to life for a lot of people over the past year."