AT least seven local schools will be uniting this coming Sunday for the annual schools' Songs of Praise service at St Eustachius' Church, Tavistock.

The service, held to mark Education Sunday, which the parish church is this year keeping on February 7, sees primary and secondary schools in Tavistock come together to sing their favourite hymn or song.

Following the familiar 'Songs of Praise' format, a representative from each school will explain to the congregation why their particular song has been chosen. The service will also feature Tavistock Community Gospel Choir, and the parish church choir.

Priest in charge the Rev Michael Brierley said: 'There's so much learning that goes on in Tavistock that this is a great opportunity to celebrate it together in a way in which everyone can join in. There's no other occasion in the yearly calendar that quite does that, so this service has a unique and special joyful atmosphere.'

Schoolchildren, teachers, families and friends are all welcome at the service, which starts at 6 pm.