YOUNG musicians battled it out on stage at the finals of a regional competition at Wycliffe College on Sunday evening.

Despite the atrocious weather, there was a record turnout to see ten talented musicians compete in the 2015 area Final of the Southern Cotswolds Rotary Young Musician competition.

Five judges deliberated on what was a very difficult decision and the winner was announced as Lydia Kenny, who attends Rednock School in Dursley.

She introduced and performed a selection of three very different styled pieces on alto saxophone.

Hosted by Wycliffe College, the 10 young musicians, selected from previously held heats, competed for the Mervyn Norris Memorial Cup and a cheque for £300.

In addition, the winner’s school will receive £500 for the purchase of musical instruments.

In second place was Daniel Harding, who attends Wells Cathedral School in Somerset, playing violin, including a piece composed by himself.

Third place went to Ella Brown, who attends Farmor’s School in Fairford playing acoustic guitar.

Runners up received cheques and trophies and all contestants received a certificate of participation.

Lydia will be invited to participate in the District Rotary Young Musician Competition at Dean Close School, Cheltenham, on Sunday, March 22, and, if successful, to the final at Bristol Grammar School on Sunday, April 19.

Bryan Webster of Stonehouse Rotary Club said: “We are delighted that one of our previous winners became a national Young Musician of the Year. “ Additionally the winner will have the opportunity to perform with Jonathan Trim and the Capriol Orchestra.