A FLAUTIST is preparing for her fifth concert in aid of Warrington Foodbank following an 'astronomical increase' in demand.

Meera Maharaj is returning to St Wilfrid's Church in Grappenhall, on Church Lane, for the event on February 2.

The former Lymm High School pupil, from Grappenhall, will be joined by Dominic Degavino to present a flute and piano recital.

The pair will be performing some of the great flute and piano works including music by Tchaikovsky, Dutilleux, Liebermann and Barber.

Meera, 22, said: "When the first concert was held, back in 2014, the need for foodbanks was becoming shocking.

"However, under the current Government the demand has increased astronomically.

"I think people now realise how essential the foodbank is in our town and that this need is very real for those in our community, who unavoidably find themselves in hard times through no fault of their own.

"As a musician, I am always pleased to find ways to help."

Meera has held a concert in aid of the charity every year since she started music college, raising more than £4,000, along with many crates of grocery donations, in the process.

This time the emphasis has been placed on raising funds to ensure that the foodbank 'is supported as demand increases'.

Meera and Dominic are both masters students in London and previously studied together at the Royal Northern College of Music.

Dominic is currently studying at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama with pianist Noriko Ogawa, while Meera is at the Royal Academy of Music.

They are both able to continue their studies following a number of scholarships including a large entrance scholarship for Meera, which was funded by Sir Elton John.

The concert on February 2 begins at 7.30pm.

Tickets, priced at £10, include an interval glass of wine and can be bought by calling 07748 425286, or on the door.