IT HAS always been said that good news does not sell papers, but how nice to see a letter published by Peter Edgar, the executive member for education at Hampshire County Council.

There is no doubt that the Hampshire County Council music service has some remarkably talented children playing in their concerts, and yes they are something that is not to be missed if you are invited to attend.

But where do these children, that are so talented come from? Our own local schools and this brings me on to the reason for my letter!

On the 11 February 2016 at St Mary’s Church, Andover we are once again holding the Andover Young Musician of the Year. Starting at 6.30pm you will delight in the brilliant talent that we have in the local ‘Senior’ Schools playing and singing in the three categories of classical, popular and this year an extra one of school choir.

The event is being sponsored by David Mellor Jewellers, Marston Robing and Test Valley Arts Foundation for which we are very grateful.

Please put this date in your diary and get your tickets from David Mellor, Newbury Building Society, Travelling Cup Cake, The Citizens Advice Bureau, Heavenly Sweets or direct from me at christopher.lynn@talktalk.net.

This is the fourth year we have run this event and have managed to make in excess of £1,000 for the St Mary’s Church restoration.

Chris Lynn, Winchester Road, Andover