A SPOTLIGHT has once again been shone on Keighley's young musical talent.

The town's Rotary club has staged its annual young musician competition.

After being held virtually last year due to the pandemic, it returned to Keighley Shared Church.

There were 22 entrants across three age categories – 12 and under, 13 to 15, and 16 to 18.

Standards received high praise from the judges.

Emily Overend, who co-judged the event with Jess Mahler, said: "I was very impressed with the standard of performers – they made our job difficult.

"In the older age category I understand that both the winner and runner-up are planning to pursue a career in musical theatre. I wish them both every success in their future careers."

Each performer received a certificate from the town mayor, Councillor Julie Adams.

She said: "I was very impressed by the young musicians and thoroughly enjoyed a delightful afternoon of music."

Winners were presented with their prizes by Rotary district representative, David Phillips.

First in the 12 and under category was vocalist Belle Baglio, and runner-up was flautist Amelia Platt.

The section for those aged 13 to 15 was won by saxophonist Bethany Clarkson, with keyboard player Rayn Rabib runner-up.

And in the 16 to 18 age group, vocalists took both the top spots – winner was Grace Hey, and runner-up Briony Moffat.

Rotarian Judy Hazlehurst said she was delighted with the success of the event.

She added: "I was so impressed by the standard of the young musicians. There was a lovely variety of instrumentalists and vocalists, including piano, saxophone, clarinet and keyboard.

"It was a beautiful afternoon of music in the wonderful setting of Keighley Shared Church.

"We are delighted to host this competition annually to give an opportunity for our local young musicians to have a platform to show their talents.

"It was the first time in two years that the competition had been held in person and it was a joy to hear the young musicians play and sing again."

Keighley Rotary Club – which currently has 25 members – met via Zoom during the pandemic, but face-to-face weekly meetings have resumed.

The club works to support local, national and international communities.

Recently, members donated goods including bedding, blankets, medicines and toiletries to support Ukrainian refugees and members helped sort and load items being trucked out to Poland.

For more about the club, email secretary@keighleyrotary.org.