ROCK stars of the future are being given the chance to learn how to play instruments and even compose their own song as part of a new scheme.

Topsham Rock School takes place in Matthews Hall, on Fore Street, and gives youngsters in two age groups a place to learn to play.

Michael Thomas, one of the organisers, said the school had started well, with 11 people signing up.

He said: "We are offering kids a fantastic chance I would have died for. They can turn up and we have a PA system, drums, guitars, microphones and set-up with really good tutors on hand to help them.

"We try to take them through the process of composing and playing music."

Six tutors run weekly sessions in guitar-based music and those taking part are able to write and perform their own pieces. The programme started earlier this month and acts as a stepping stone for some participants to go on and study music at a higher level.

The school takes place on Mondays from 5pm until 6.30pm and with the success so far, further developments are expected. Michael said: "We have two set-ups, one in the main hall and one in the council chamber upstairs. We are making do but we are talking to Topsham School, which has big plans for expansion. Hopefully, we will be able to collaborate."

The Rock School ran some test sessions as part of the Topsham Summer Activities, which are organised throughout the school holiday.

Michael added: "During this, we had lots of applications from older kids but we are trying to attract younger kids, too."

Student Georgia Slade, fromClyst St Mary, said: "I have been doing a number of things at the Rock School such as drumming and some of the tutors give me a beat to learn and I also sing. The tutors help me to improve my singing. I love going and it is really fun. It is something to do when I get home from school."

The St Peter's pupil added: "You can take your mind off school and home work and go to the Rock School. It is really fun. It is also a great way to show off your skills and it is good for making friends."

The school is running a one-hour taster session on October 20 from 4pm for anyone who wants to try it out.

The project was given an initial boost by the Lottery's Awards for All grant scheme, which gave a £4,500 donation.

For more information, visit www.topshamrockschool.org.