A YOUNG musician from Wistaston has scooped top prize at a competition run for talented performers.

The musicians hit the high notes at Arley Hall on Sunday, March 9 in the ninth Warrington Competition for Young Musicians.

The musical contest, which is held every two years, was organised by charity WACIDOM and won by Thomas Kelly from Wistaston.

He was judged to be the top performer from the final nine who came from Goostrey, Sandbach, Macclesfield, Altrincham, Wistaston, St Helens and Grappenhall.

“The standard, in a very closely-run contest, was incredible and befitting of a venue such as Arley Hall,” said organiser Norman Cutter.

All entrants were Grade 7 or above and Thomas performed Skrjabin Vers La Flamme, Schubert Impromptu in G major Opus 90 No 3 and Liszt Tarantella from Venezia e Napoli.

Tom said: “I feel very grateful to WACIDOM for putting on such a splendid competition, and to Lord and Lady Ashbrook for allowing the use of Arley Hall.

“I also feel highly privileged to have had the opportunity to perform among so many highly gifted musicians, and to have had such an educative, friendly and happy experience.”

Since it began in 1998, the competition has been fine-tuned so that the entrants can gain personal presentation skills, advice from the accompanist and benefit from the masterclasses and written adjudications.

Sunday’s adjudicators were Chairman Chris Swann (clarinettist), Benjamin Frith (pianist), Ann Taylor (mezzo soprano), Nicola Summerscales (flautist) and Heather Bills (cellist).

Norman said: “This has become such a successful event and we really aim to create a friendly, yet competitive environment that will ensure those taking part enjoy, benefit and are encouraged to develop their musical talents.”