A REGULAR feature of Ulverston's festival calendar started this weekend.

For many years young musicians from across the area have been put through their paces by the judges at the South Cumbria Musical Festival.

Held at the unparalleled venue of the town's Coronation Hall year in year out the judges never cease to be amazed at the bright young talent south Cumbria seems to breed.

Before the fun began a spokesman for the festival summarised the good feeling for this year.

They said: "This year’s festival promises to be the usual feast of good music and speech so come along to support and be entertained by talented local performers. You won’t be disappointed."

Yesterday (18) was a day devoted to a school of music which has become synonymous with the north - the brass band.

Throughout the entire day different age groups and categories went before the distinguished adjudicator for the day, french horn player, Chris Wormald. With decades of experience under his belt, and having played before national and international audiences there would be few better placed to oversee a day of brass music.

Just a few of the winners from a day jam-packed with talent include nine-year-old Haverigg girl Alana Harrison. The young euphonium player was awarded the Robert James Lacey Trophy for her performance.

Grange boy Sean Kerr was awarded the Hartmann Trophy and duo Tess Cullen and Natasha McQuire, of Millom, won the brass duet category for their Philip Sparke arranged duet.

Dozens more competitors took to the stage throughout the day with performances going on well into the evening.

The festival will continue for the rest of the week before concluding on Saturday March 24 for its traditional gala night finale.

Performers from all disciplines from throughout the week will be competing for a valuable cash prize.

Award winning ladies choir Ottovoce will open the Gala this year and Cumbria Horn Ensemble will close.

Tickets can still be bought by phoning 01229 584653 at any time or from the Coronation Hall during festival week or by phoning 07773403686 during festival week.