EGGLESCLIFFE School orchestra has won a major award at the National Festival of Music for Youth, making it the best school orchestra in the country.

The orchestra won its tenth outstanding performance award in as many years at the event, with the school's soul band, About Time, also winning the same award.

The 72-strong orchestra played Fanfare for Freedom, written by year 12 pupil Danny Allinson, and the Sinfonietta by K Platts.

About Time played the Bacharach/David songs, Promises Promises and Walk on By, as well as Stevie Wonder's Superstition.

The 47-piece brass band also took part, playing Star Lake/Helter Skelter, which included a xylophone solo by Danny, who is principal percussionist with the National Youth Orchestra.

Music staff and pupils coached and accompanied The Links Primary School Choir and Recorders, who gained a highly commended performance award.

They performed Recorder Chorus written by Keith Hewson, director of music at the school.

Egglescliffe School has taught the recorder to more than 600 primary children in nine local primary schools in the last year as part of its arts college outreach programme.

Mr Hewson said: "I'm so very proud of the Egglescliffe musicians. Their energy, commitment and talents are outstanding. They are a great credit to the school."

Angela Darnell, head of the school, said: "This level of achievement reflects a tremendous commitment on behalf of both teachers and students. It is just reward for all their hard work."