North Ayrshire’s talented young musicians showed their skills and wowed judges at a regional competition last week.

The North Ayrshire Young Singer and Young Instrumentalist of the Year competition took place in Ardrossan Academy on February 15 and saw musicians compete for the titles.

Winner of the Young Singer of the Year, Macey Griffin from St Matthew’s Academy, was also awarded as the overall winner and will go on to compete in the Scottish Solo Performer of the Year national final.

The Young Singer runners-up were Angus Collingridge Watt from Garnock Community Campus and Chloe McDonald from Kilwinning Academy.

Cellist Christina McGillion from Ardrossan Academy was named Young Instrumentalist of the year while flutist Erin Furey from Garnock Community Campus and pianist Raymond McLaughlin from Auchenharvie Academy were awarded as runners-up.

North Ayrshire Provost Anthea Dickson said: “What a fantastic night’s entertainment and it was a real privilege to be there to witness such talent.

“The young people are an absolute credit to their schools, and they should all be incredibly proud of themselves.

“We wish Macey every success as she goes forward to the national competition.”

Macey will represent North Ayrshire in the national final held in the Royal Conservatoire on May 21.

General Manager with Live Music Now and former teacher at the esteemed Guildhall School of Music, Lesley-Ann Smith, adjudicated the event.

Accompanying the musicians was Claire Haslin from the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland.

Councillor for education Shaun Macaulay said: “A huge congratulations to all our talented finalists who again performed brilliantly and showcased their enormous array of skills.

“A big well done to all who took part and of course to the staff who have supported them throughout.”

The competition was organised by North Ayrshire Council’s music service and was supported by the Rhoda Reid Charitable Trust and Scottish Young Musicians.