Hundreds of music fans flocked to buy tickets to see one of Europe’s top orchestras, the European Union Chamber Orchestra (EUCO), perform in the town.

All 400 tickets were sold in under 25 minutes for the concert at Paul Street’s United Reformed Church Georgian Chapel on December 8.

The orchestra will play a selection of popular Christmas music, including Vivaldi’s Four Seasons.

Lynn Burgess, a volunteer at the box office, said: “Sure, we were expecting lots of ticket requests, but when over 1,000 people tried to book in the first ten minutes, our computers went down under the strain.

“We should have known better.

“Everyone loves the Four Seasons.

“And to hear it played live in Taunton town centre by such a famous orchestra is a thrilling experience.”

The orchestra’s musicians, selected from the best players in the EU’s 27 member states, are eager to perform.

Their Austrian conductor and virtuoso violinist, Hans-Peter Hofmann, said: “We have chosen to perform our only UK Christmas concert in Taunton because we always receive such a brilliant welcome.

“This will be our fifth visit since 2010 and I can’t wait to play for you all again.”

On the off chance there are any ticket cancellations, you can join the waiting list by calling the box office on 07938 728829 or emailing quantocks@live.co.uk.