THE first in a series of three charity arts events will be taking place at Madresfield Garden Centre next week.

Together with the Friends of the English Symphony Orchestra, the centre will present Les Cordes Vivantes, a trio combining the clarinet with violin and cello, on Wednesday (May 23).

This first concert, which includes a buffet supper, has already sold out and the proceeds will go towards the English Symphony Orchestra.

The second event, called Dragons Galore and More, will be in aid of Guide Dogs for the Blind.

Cliff Eastabrook, 'The Travelling Talesman', is a professional storyteller and musician who has developed an extensive repertoire of material ranging from early Celtic through Viking and medieval to the present day.

People are invited to listen to traditional tales of myth and magic and enjoy a picnic while letting their imaginations run riot.

The Travelling Talesman will be at Madresfield Garden Centre on Saturday, June 23 at 6.30pm. Tickets, including a picnic box, are £9.75 for adults and free for children. There will be a reduced rate for teenagers and senior citizens.

Tickets are available from the garden centre.

The Halcyon Ensemble, a chamber group, will perform at the third event later in the summer to raise money for CLIC, Cancer and Leukaemia in Children.