Budding violinists from Hackney have pulled some strings to support a Canadian school which is desperate for new musical instruments.

Under the stewardship of Gillian Mott, who teaches the violin to students living across the borough at weekends, budding musicians came together on Saturday to busk in Broadway Market.

The purpose of the session was to raise money for Donald Ahmo School to launch its new violin programme.

As a proud Canadian herself, Gillian was compelled to help the school after reading its call for help on the internet.

The Vancouver-born tutor found her students – many of whom attend London Fields Primary School – were more than willing to lend their support to the cause.

Gillian, who has played the violin for more than 30 years, said: “I think this is a great opportunity to help children to enjoy playing violin all over the world.

“I am such a huge advocate of music in schools as I had brilliant teachers who inspired me to teach in later life.

“With so many arts cuts in the education sector, it’s more important than ever to support programmes like this around the globe.

“I think the children will be over the moon to get such a boost to their programme.

“We love our violins here in Hackney and want to share our love of music with other children who have the want but not the means to get them.”

Donald Ahmo School headteacher Ferdinand Ayo started the scheme to keep the children busy and out of trouble while fostering an appreciation for music at the Manitoba school.

“I started to cry tears of joy when I read Gillian’s email,” he said. “I couldn’t believe this was such a huge deal for them and was touched by the generosity of her students.

“They have given me hope that the programme could be a success.”

The busking session raised more than £150, but Gillian and her students want to triple this figure with more busking sessions over the next two months.

For more information search for “violins for Donald Ahmo School” at gofundme.com.