Ian ClarkeSome of the best of Norfolk's performing talent - including an array of rising young stars - were showcased as county council chairman Shelagh Gurney marked the end of year in office in style.Ian Clarke

Some of Norfolk's top performing talent were showcased as county council chairman Shelagh Gurney marked the end of year in office in style.

The Thursford Collection near Fakenham was the venue on Friday night as about 500 guests enjoyed a cultural treat including Mrs Gurney herself playing with Norwich Accordion Club.

Singer songwriter Jess Morgan from Acle, just back from a tour of America, and Norwich-based street dancers Passion Productions were among those performing.

Young Wymondham College string quartet FAME - Flo Wesby, Anna Hoogkamer, Mollie Naryn and Emily Hoogkamer - Fakenham Town Band and Alan Helsdon, of the Singing Histories, also entertained the audience.

Mr Helsdon sang a specially written piece called Won't You Come Down, a witty insight into the array of hats worn by Mrs Gurney during her civic term.

She said: 'Norfolk is a wonderful place to live and work and is home to very talented and inspiring people, so of whom I have had the pleasure to meet in the last year. It has been an honour and a privilege to represent Norfolk.'

Mrs Gurney said the most poignant moment of her year in office had been the welcome home service at Norwich Cathedral for the Light Dragoons and she was very excited about the Queen's visit to the city this week.