A TOWN'S first classical musical festival is set to take place today.

Furness Classical is hosting its inaugural classical musical festival at St Mary’s Church in Dalton from today.

The event, which is on until Thursday, is the borough's first classical music festival, with hopes the event will help put classical music on the map.

Musicians Julian Jacobson, Anthony Hewitt, Akiko Ono and Roman Kosyakov are set to perform at the festival.

Barrow Borough councillor Therese Assouad noticed a lack of live local classical performances in the area - despite there being a ‘rich diversity’ of musical talent.

With the help and support of friends and some professional musicians, the councillor began planning for the region's first classical music festival.

She said: “Barrow has so much to offer with its rich history, wonderful natural environment and friendly, caring people.

“But one thing that I felt was missing was the availability of hearing live professional classical music performances.

“We are hopeful that by holding such an event and encouraging visitors from other local areas to join us we can help raise the cultural profile of Barrow and enrich peoples' musical experiences. In these difficult times we cannot underestimate the therapeutic value of music.”