HUNDREDS of pupils became stars today as a North-East school staged its own annual music festival.

The youngsters at Hummersknott Academy in Darlington were given three weeks to prepare for the event under the theme of “pop legends”.

And former pupil Jade Byrne, now a successful actor who has appeared in Casualty, George Gently and Holby City, returned to help with the judging.

Jade, who has also had a one-woman show at the Edinburgh Fringe, said: “It’s been fantastic to see so much talent on stage – and especially nice to see so many boys getting up there and performing.”

Fellow judge Katie Hibbard, of Durham Music Service, added: “This is their chance to shine and not only have the performances been great, but it has been a real demonstration of their leadership skills.”

Around 500 pupils took part in the festival, which is part of an annual cup competition fought out by the school’s five colleges: Stephenson, Quaker, Cuthbert, Wyvern and Ketton.

The youngsters were judged on four elements – choir, ensemble, dance, and art and design – with a jubilant Cuthbert judged to be the overall winners. Cuthbert also came out top for the ensemble; Quaker were the best choir; and Ketton won both dance and art and design.

Principal James Keating said: “The festival is entirely the work of the students, with no teacher involvement, so it’s all about their leadership skills, organizational ability and teamwork.

“They’ve worked incredibly hard and, although the competition is fierce, they have all supported each other and it’s been a joy to see it all coming together.”