FOR many musically-minded people, performing at the Royal Albert Hall is a dream that seldom becomes a reality. But it s something a group of Hatfield schoolchildren can already count among their list of achievements. Pupils at The Ryde School, in Pleasan

FOR many musically-minded people, performing at the Royal Albert Hall is a dream that seldom becomes a reality.

But it's something a group of Hatfield schoolchildren can already count among their list of achievements.

Pupils at The Ryde School, in Pleasant Rise, have just completed a stint performing as part of the chorus line for a production of Georges Bizet's classic opera Carmen.

The 12 pupils, aged between seven and 11, successfully auditioned to appear at the historic London venue, performing every other day between February 27 and March 8.

Headteacher Janet Goddard said: "The children all thoroughly enjoyed the experience, and for many it was a once in a lifetime opportunity."

Pictured back row from left are Shalman Igbokwe, William Astley, Luke Smith, Leo Ramsdale, Stephen Quenet, Elis Woodford.

And front from left, Jet Wang, Nicholas Simon, Brandon Hill, Perry Kirstruck, Charlie Castle. not in picture James Stewart.