FANS of Spanish guitar music were in for a treat when two of the finest musicians in the South West, Mark Barnwell and Jon Boyes, who perform under the name Esperanto, entertained the audience at The Meeting House in Ilminster.

The entertaining duo, who are known for their individual style and dynamic musical chemistry, met by chance at an international flamenco forum in 2004, resulting in their enduring collaboration.

The event had been put together by Richard Jacobs in conjunction with the team from the Meeting House and was hailed a great success by all who attended.

During the evening Esperanto provided a diverse and entertaining show full of traditional, original and contemporary Spanish guitar music, influenced by Latin and Flamenco styles and at times betraying their early rock influences.

In addition to this, Flamenco dancer Aneta Skut, gave an inspiring demonstration, to give a taste of what might be in store for those who sign up for her workshop at The Meeting House later this month.

The concert, sponsored by local solicitors Broomhead & Saul, helped to raise over £1,300, to the delight of the many Samaritans supporters who attended including Ilminster’s county council representative, Cllr Linda Vijeh.

“The work that Samaritans carries out all year round in providing a confidential listening service to those who are in distress, could not continue without the generosity of those involved in local fund raising events such as this, for which we are extremely grateful,” she said.