Young musicians at Howsham Hall School, near Malton, are celebrating after 11 of them passed top examinations with flying colours.

It was the highest number ever entered by the 60-pupil school in the Associated Board examinations, said spokesman Martin Dales.

The youngsters, aged between eight and 13, achieved the following successes: Grade 1: Thomas Coe (flute), Lucy Kendall (clarinet); James Nightingale (alto-saxophone - merit), David Knock, Thomas Madden (piano).

Grade 2 (all piano): Rachel Dales (merit), Edward Boak, Michael Raikes, Adam Robertson (Grade 3), Rachel Dales (violin - merit), William Devos (piano - distinction).

The choir and musicians of the school are to give the Fitzwilliam Concert on Friday, October 6, at the Old Malton Festival in St Mary's Priory Church as part of the church's 900th anniversary celebrations.

Tickets, costing £5, are available from the Rev John Manchester and Pearson and Ward Solicitors, 2 Market Street, Malton.