I was recently privileged to attend a musical spectacular evening in aid of the Martlets Hospice at the Brighton Dome.

It consisted of local performers and theatre groups and matched anything you could wish to see anywhere. Every group did the area proud, with excerpts from the greatest of musical theatre.

The compere, Mark Little, brought a refreshing lightness and humour to the evening, which raised more than £40,000 for the great works of the hospice.

Most notable were the performances of Shine Theatre, who earned a standing ovation at the finale of the first act with their spirited rendition from Lion King.

They featured many special needs children in their ensemble who were obviously relishing the chance to perform to a professional standard with stars of the future.

My hat goes off to the organisers who created such a splendid win-win situation. Money was raised for a worthy cause and every one of the packed audience enjoyed a true "Musical Spectacular".

-Chris Cook, Hurstpierpoint