A YOUNGSTER has won a music award only six years after he joined Thirsk Royal British Legion Band.

Jack Barber, 13, of Thirsk, won the George Scaife Memorial Trophy for his contribution to the band.

The teenager is a talented musician and recently gained a distinction in his grade four music exam for the euphonium.

Mary Dickinson, the band's musical director, said: "I can remember that when Jack joined the band six years ago, the instrument was almost bigger than he was.

"He has made great progress and he always gives of his best. He is truly musical and could get a tune out of anything."

Previous trophy winner Craig Burnett now plays professionally in London with Majestic Brass.