HUNDREDS of youngsters from all over Gwent will be heading to London next week to raise the roof at the Royal Albert Hall.

For the first time, primary school children from the area have been invited to take part in the renowned Schools Proms which this year celebrates its 30th anniversary.More than 560 youngsters from Torfaen, Newport, Monmouth and Blaenau Gwent will form a massed choir to perform excerpts from The Lion King.

They will be joined by African drummers, a small orchestra and a group of dancers for what promises to be a wonderful occasion.

This week the young singers got together at Cwmbran Stadium to practise for their big night.

"It is going to be superb," said Christine Purkiss, of the Gwent Music Support Service. "This is a really prestigious event."

Isca Linea Caravan Ensemble, of Caerleon, has also been invited to take part in the 2004 Schools Proms.

Organised by Music for Youth, the Proms will celebrate 30 years of the very best of music making by musicians, singers and dancers from every corner of the British Isles.

Over three nights, 3,000 youngsters will entertain audiences. Their invitations followed performances at the National Festival in the summer.