YOUNG choristers are putting the finishing touches to a challenging programme for an annual concert.

Sixty choristers from the Chapel and Senior choirs at Queen Mary's School, near Thirsk, will present a mix of classical and contemporary works, at the concert in Ripon Cathedral, on Tuesday.

They will be accompanied by a small chamber orchestra, which includes headteacher Robert McKenzie Johnston, who plays the oboe.

He said: "The concert is the highlight of our musical year. It follows the news that several of our girls have gained music awards to leading schools in addition to a number of academic scholarships.

"We are delighted for them and this is certainly proof of the high standard of music at St Mary's."

Head chorister Laura Ramsden has won a music and academic scholarship to Oundle School.

Her deputy, Rachel Dales, has won a music exhibition to Worksop School.

Fellow students Georgina Maud and Emma Clark, who are members of the Chapel Choir, have gained scholarships to Uppingham and Yarm Schools respectively.

The concert starts at 7.30pm.

Tickets cost £6. They are available at the door and from the school on (01845) 575000.

Published: 01/07/2004