YOUNG songsters from York and North Yorkshire have smashed the Guinness World Record for the largest ever simultaneous sing.

More than 83,000 children from nine primary schools sang together in an effort to break the record of 15,500 children, and raise money for Sargent Cancer Care for Children.

Park Grove Primary, York, Bugthorpe CE Primary, Green Hammerton CE Primary, Selby Abbey CE Primary, Selby, Barlby Bridge Primary, Harrogate Grammer School, St Roberts RC Primary, Harrogate, The Wensleydale School, Leyburn, and Mill Hill School, Northallerton, took part in the drive, organised by Young Voices, in December 2002. The record was ratified last week. Sargent's chief executive, Siun Cranny, said: "I would like to thank all the children who took part for their tremendous efforts.

"Through their fundraising efforts they have helped many young people with cancer and their families all over the UK."

All nine schools will receive a certificate in the summer term, confirming their success in achieving the world record.

Young Voices is hoping to set an even bigger simultaneous sing world record later this year. Enquiries should be made to the Young Voice office on 02920 691999.

Updated: 08:47 Thursday, June 05, 2003