They were not born when clarinet player Acker Bilk released his famous instrumental, Stranger on the Shore.But a class of 25 pupils at Wells Primary School may one day be playing the tune that became the UK's biggest-selling single of all time.

They were not born when clarinet player Acker Bilk released his famous instrumental, Stranger on the Shore.

But a class of 25 pupils at Wells Primary School may one day be playing the tune that became the UK's biggest-selling single of all time.

For they all have the chance of learning to play the clarinet following a successful bid for a government grant which has covered the costs of the £60 instruments and the services of a music teacher for their weekly lessons.

And headteacher Carol Jennings has decided to try the instrument herself and is learning along aside her nine and 10 year-old pupils.

“We decided on the clarinet because as well as having a beautiful sound, the fingering is quite easy and they are portable so that the children can take them home to continue their practising. It will also help with pupils who want to learn to play the oboe and saxophone,” said Ms Jennings.

She added: “While being able to play Acker Bilk's famous Stranger on the Shore instrumental is a longer term aim, the children are learning to play When the Saints Come Marching In.”