MADDY Prior and the Carnival Band performing their own special blend of carols has become something of an annual event in Salisbury and indeed the packed house indicated that she certainly has a loyal following, and justly so.

Her pure, clear voice is the perfect tonic during the festive season, putting her own stamp on both well known and lesser known carols, the almost toe-tapping atmosphere a pleasant change from the more usual slower pace of the carol.

With the Carnival Band providing the music on an eclectic range of period and modern instruments, from bagpipes and recorders to electric guitar and drums, an authentic spirit reigned supreme.

Maddy's sheer love of music and performing was obvious and the band filled the stage with sound, from the popular It Came Upon The Midnight Clear to more unusual arrangements of tunes by French baroque composer Charpentier, played on the bagpipes.

This delightful concert provided perfect festival fare as a gentle warm-up to Christmas.

Anne Morris