More than 175 people have attended music sessions, one-to-one lessons, and live music events in Bicester over the last year.

Community music project, Music United, made a "big impact" across the town during the autumn and winter of 2023 and spring and summer this year, Cherwell District Council said.

The project aimed to inspire confidence and unite people of all ages through music.

It offered weekly music sessions, one-on-one lessons, and live events, all of which provided a "safe and creative" space for participants to learn new skills and make friends.

The council supported the programme, run by charity Community Albums, with money from its UK Shared Prosperity Fund allocation.

Councillor Rob Pattenden, portfolio holder for healthy communities, said: "It has been wonderful to hear how UK Shared Prosperity Fund funding has helped residents of all ages join together in Bicester to celebrate their love of music.

"Music is universal and a great way for people from all walks of life to forge genuine connections.

"It has been particularly heart-warming to hear about younger people joining this programme and seeing their confidence develop in leaps and bounds.

"Community engagement initiatives like this are a lifeline to many, and we are incredibly proud to be able to support their running through our grants and funds."

Cherwell District Council has been allocated £1,255,946 from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund to address local needs and to support businesses and people and skills.