THIS Christmas, in a bid to revive the musical tradition of the ancient harpers, Stroud harp teacher Morwenna Louttit-Vermaat and her harp maker husband Creag are giving away 100 free tickets to harp lessons. 

They want to teach people who are curious about the instrument a Christmas carol as a gift. 

They hope to inspire people to connect with something less materialistic and more enriching as we head towards Christmas.

Their company, Hands on Harps have been working hard this year making lots of harps in their workshop in Woodchester and are now ready to spread the music. 

They've even come up with an innovative colour-based system to help people learn to play called the Rainbow Harp.

"Most people are scared to give it a go, but the traditional way to teach harp doesn't involve any sheet music or theory. It's hands-on and fun," said Morwenna.

If you would like to book in to one of the free sessions, head to handsonharps.com/harp-taster-sessions.

Photographs by Simon Pizzey