A GROUP of schoolchildren in Monmouth have followed in the footsteps of some of the country’s best-known rock bands.

The Year 4 pupils at Monmouth School Boys’ Prep recorded a song, Oro My Little Boat (The Clancy Sisters), and had a fascinating insight into the history and workings of Rockfield Studios on Wednesday 30th January.

Queen, Oasis, Kasabian, Black Sabbath, The Charlatans and The Stone Roses are just some of the groups who have recorded at the iconic venue on the outskirts of Monmouth.

The boys had an opportunity to sit at the piano once graced by the late Freddie Mercury and ask questions to Lisa Ward, who manages the studio.

The pupils also enjoyed watching in-house sound engineer, Joe Jones, work the echo chamber and the mixing desk which has been in place since 1977.

Nine-year-old pianist Huw Taylor, who lives Usk, said: "I never thought I would ever get to see - or touch - the piano which Freddie Mercury used during his time in Monmouth. It was incredible.

"I am a huge fan of Freddie Mercury and Queen. Bohemian Rhapsody, which was recorded at Rockfield, is my favourite song."