York residents can relieve the stresses of Christmas shopping by enjoying musical street entertainment in the city centre.

Late night shoppers on Thursday (18 December) will be entertained by the exuberant rhythms of the Trans-global drummers. The group, who are members of City of York Council's Performing Arts Centres, will play in St Sampson's Square from 6pm.

Before they perform, the group will receive a donation of £500 from the Alma Jean Henry Charitable Trust to help towards a visit to Ghana in February 2004 to play with Ghana musicians.

Jon Ward, leader of the Trans-global drummers, said: "The group has raised £6,250 to date and have a target of £10,000. We have had a fantastic response to our donation appeal. It will be an amazing opportunity for the drummers to meet musicians from Ghana, to make links and friendships and hear some inspiring, superb drumming."

The Trans-Global drummers meet at Milthorpe School every Wednesday to learn drumming techniques and rehearse for performances.