TALENTED music maker Alex Helleur has beaten 20 other students to scoop the title of top young musician.

Alex, a pupil at Brine Leas School became the Galliford Cheshire Schools Musician of the Year at the Lyceum Theatre on Sunday.

He plays the tenor horn and won through to the final with three other musicians from across the county.

The competition was open to secondary school pupils at associated board grade seven or above.

His prize is the chance to perform at a Manchester Camerata concert and £500 worth of music vouchers for himself and his school.

He will also receive a consultation lesson from one of the Camerata's principal players.

"The standard from the other three entrants was very high," said Alex. "I was a bit surprised but delighted to win."

Borough mayor Chris Thorley attended the finals and is promoting local arts during his year in office.

He said: "I thoroughly enjoyed listening to all the competitors and I'm absolutely delighted that a young person from Nantwich beat off such stiff competition to win this prestigious title. It's great to see young people with such talent and commitment."

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