PARENTS

The Right Honourable Michael Portillo made a scheduled stop at Malvern St James during the summer break as part of the filming of the next series of ‘Great British Railway Journeys'.

The documentary series, which sees Michael Portillo travel the length and breadth of the country by train, came to Great Malvern to focus on the legacy of the composer Edward Elgar.

Prior to filming, local historian Dr John Harcup discussed with the programme researcher Elgar's connection with the railway, which he used to attend concerts and music festivals throughout the United Kingdom. On learning that Malvern St James had originally been a large railway hotel, the production company were keen to film at the premises.

As part of his visit to the school Mr Portillo was entertained by the sounds of ‘Chanson de Matin', composed by Edward Elgar and performed by music scholar, Tamsin Elsey, accompanied by teacher, Malcolm Forbes-Peckham. Tamsin and Mr Portillo also discussed the influence of Elgar's music in her life and her interest in the composer.

Headmistress, Mrs Woodhouse, comments, “We were delighted that Mr Portillo was able to experience the exceptional musical talent we have here at MSJ as well as take in other historical points of interest in Malvern – the whole area is so rich in heritage and history. We look forward to seeing the programme next year.”

The next series of ‘Great British Railway Journeys' is due to be broadcast on BBC 2 in January 2012.