IT certainly seemed a strange concept - powerfully emotional rhythmic music based in Humberside.

A quick word with a member of the audience and it was learned that Robin Kaye had run away to Spain at the age of 17. How does she know this?

Oh, she is his cousin! Well, to say the least, Robin Kaye has certainly assimilated the spirit of Flamenco singing and dancing to the extent that he brought the full flavour to The Manor House on Friday night.

His recent teaming of six years' standing with Ron Burbela is proving extremely successful and the capacity audience was treated to a most thrilling repertoire of amazing finger gymnastics.

The music ranged from the flamboyant Rumba rhythm which Robert Kaye attributes not to South America but to the gypsies' handling of the bolero, to the Soleares which he says is at the very centre of Flamenco expression.

As a dance, the Soleares reveals both passion and tragedy, while in its vocal form it deals with the more serious aspects of the human condition.

Ron Burbela's spirited accompaniment brought drama to the pleasing tenor renderings of Kaye but throughout the performance I felt that the formality of the audience proved a little stultifying for the performers.

No matter, it was an evening well spent and brought a tantalising foretaste of summer holidays and foreign travel to brighten our winter days.

The final concert of the series is on Friday, March 31.

The Kendal String Quartet will present a programme of music across the ages.

This will be the third appearance at the Manor House for this very popular group.

Make sure you have a seat by contacting Keith Hartley on 01943 60704.

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