TALENTED youngsters from across Keighley are being invited to take part in the town’s annual Young Musician competition.

The contest is run by the Rotary Club of Keighley and will feature a day of performances at Keighley Shared Church on November 15.

Winners in three age groups will go on to perform at district level, most likely in York, on March 7 next year, in the hope of being invited to the regional final.

Rotary member Judy Hazlehurst encouraged schools and private tutors to enter their most talented instrumental and vocalist students.

She said: “The standard was very high last year with one of the Keighley winners going on from the district final to be runner-up in the regional final.

“All participants will be awarded a certificate and the winners and runners-up of each category will receive a cash prize.”

The three categories are: aged 14 and under, 15 and 16, and 17 and 18, all on August 31 next year.

Judy said: “The increase in the number of contestants over the years means that we now plan to judge the youngest age group in the morning.”

The 14-and-unders will begin playing at 10am, with the older two age groups beginning at 2pm.

All performers are welcome to be accompanied on the piano, but they must provide their own accompanist. No recorded compliments will be allowed.

There is a free choice of music and each performer should choose a piece lasting four to five minutes, no longer.

Anyone wishing to enter should contact Judy Hazlehurst by emailing judy.hazlehurst@keighleyrotary.org or calling her on 01535 603184. Entries must be received by this Saturday. (November 1).

There is no entrance fee for candidates, but there will be a £2.50 charge for supporters, including key cake and tea and coffee.