YOUNG musicians in Winchester are set to secure a permanent home after receiving civic and charitable grants.

The city council has allocated £3,000 for the Winnall Rock School to move to a new permanent base at the King Alfred Youth Activity Centre.

It follows two years of uncertainty over the school’s location.

Cllr John Cooper, city council portfolio holder for communities, said: “For the last two years the rock school has relied on the generosity of the staff and governors at Winnall Primary School who have provided space and facilities for the group.

“I have been looking at ways to help Winnall Rock School find a permanent home with more space for their activities.

“KAYAC also receives an annual grant from the city council and, as it is at the heart of the Winnall community, it makes perfect sense to bring the two together.”

Winnall Rock School was founded six years ago by local families who couldn’t afford music lessons for their children.

It provides free weekly music lessons for 10–18 year olds, led by musician Chris Redmond and volunteers.

Cllr Cooper added: “I have to thank Cllr Chris Pines for helping me to take this project forward.

“I know he is a huge fan of the rock school, and he has secured a donation from the Henry Smith Charity so that our joint funding can pay for the modifications needed to create a dedicated music studio in the KAYAC building.”

Paul Pounsford, head of the school’s management committee, is delighted at the prospect of a move in the coming months.

He said: “We desperately need more space and this studio will be a fantastic venue for young people who want to express themselves through music and learn new skills.”