More than 3,000 people have already signed up to smash the record for the largest ukulele ensemble at St Mary’s Stadium next month.

The majority of those taking part will be from the county’s schools, keen to tune in for the attempt which will be led by children’s entertainer Justin Fletcher MBE – known as Mr Tumble from Cbeebies.

The current record is held by 2,134 participants who performed at the Leiland Grow Incorporated Ukulele Picnic in Japan in July 2012 – but now Hampshire is hoping to do better.

The attempt from 1.30pm on July 18 has been organised by Hampshire Music Hub, a partnership led by Hampshire County Schools that sign up will be provided with ukuleles and song sheets.

Entry is £6 or £3 for concessions.

Tickets can be booked by calling Hampshire Music Service on 023 8065 2037 or emailing music.service@hants.gov.uk.