AN annual competition for talented young musicians has been launched.

The competition, which comes with a £300 top prize towards their musical education, takes place on Saturday, April 10 in the Methodist Church, in Chester-le-Street Market Place and is open to members of the public.

The annual contest is organised by the Rotary Club of Chester-le-Street in connection with the James Etherington Music Trust, set up in memory of the famous local singer who performed in many West End shows.

Promising young musicians living in County Durham who wish to further their training in playing a musical instrument or singing, are invited to apply for the award.

Previous winners have included pianists Mark Dowd, Laura Jones and Leila Panesar; cellist Joanne Keithley, and violinists Miriam Davis and Bobby He.

The overall winner will take home £300 and a silver trophy, with £150 going to the runner-up and smaller awards to all other participants.

Application forms are available from P Driscoll, Hon Secretary, James Etherington Music Trust, 12 Alnwick Close, Chester-le-Street, Co Durham DH2 3JL.

Completed entry forms must be returned by Friday, February 26.