ONE of Germany's most highly regarded orchestras is to give a concert in Preston's Emmanuel Parish Church.

The Cologne New Philharmonic Chamber Orchestra is visiting the Brook Street church on April 21.

The orchestra recently toured with violinist Nigel Kennedy and is directed by conductor Volker Hartung.

The Rev Dr Stephen Hunt, of Emmanuele Church, said: "Mr Hartung wrote to us asking if they could perform in our church. We naturally said 'yes'. We are absolutely delighted, and we hope it is the first of many performances here."

The chamber ensemble expands several times a year to a full symphony orchestra with musicians from all over the world represented in their ranks.

Tickets are £10 from the tourist information centre, Lancaster Road, or on the door an hour before the show, which starts at 7.30pm.