Ugandan orphans to perform in city

More than 30 members of the Watoto Children's Choir - adults and children - will sing, dance and act as part of the Concert of Hope at St Serf's Parish Church in Ferry Road later this month.

The children, aged seven to 14, have lost their parents to war or HIV/Aids and are now being supported by the relief charity, Watoto, in the villages of Suubi and Bbira.

The choir has toured all over the world to raise awareness of the disease and raise money.

Edinburgh residents Mark Wells, 33, and Vili Ledua, who opened a new church - Breakthrough for Christ ANCF (English Missionary), which currently operates from the Edinburgh City Mission building - in February, are working with the charity.

They have arranged for members of the choir to stay with nine families in Edinburgh during their two-day visit, including Mr Well's and Mr Ledua's homes.

Father-of-three Mr Wells, who lives in West Pilton, said: "With us starting up a church, we were speaking about sponsoring the kids to come to Edinburgh this year.

"We felt it would be really good for our kids here to find out what the kids live like over there. It gives the children something to look forward to."

Up to 300 people are expected to attend the performance, which will feature native African rhythms and ethnic dance routines.

Mr Wells said: "When they do the concert they will bring a bit of drama in, which shows what they live like. The girls and boys stand up and tell you what their life was like before the charity was involved."

The concert, which First Minister Alex Salmond has been invited to attend, will take place on April 30 at 7.30pm. Tickets are free on the door.