THE Countess of Wessex joined Treloar’s students at Mansion House in London for an annual fundraising gala dinner.

While as royal patron Sophie Wessex was guest of honour, it was Treloar School and College students who were the stars of the show.

Jocelyn Watkins, head of music, gave a brief welcome and introduced Amy, Henry, Mike and Jamie to the stage who then gave wonderful performances of songs from the musical The Lion King.

Bethany Arnott, a Treloar’s teacher, provided sign language throughout for the 210 guests present, encouraging them to join in.

The students were accompanied by the Royal Marines Concert Band Quartet.

It was a special evening with speeches from Treloar’s parent and patron Humphrey Hawksley, an author, commentator and foreign correspondent, followed by The Countess of Wessex who gave an awe-inspiring speech on the work of Treloar’s and how proud she is to be part of the “Treloar’s family”.

The annual event, hosted this year by The Rt Hon the Lord Mayor of the City of London, Alderman The Lord Mountevans, raised a net profit of £45,000 which will help toward the work Treloar’s does in supporting each student to achieve his or her best in every aspect of life.

Her Royal Highness The Countess of Wessex is pictured with The Rt Hon the Lord Mayor of the City of London, Alderman The Lord Mountevans, fellow guests, staff and Treloar’s School and College students turned performers, Amy, Henry, Mike and Jamie.