GIFTED musicians from Cronton Sixth Form College are celebrating after success in the Rainhill Young Musician of the Year competition.

Vocalist Jessica Thickett won the senior section prize and pianist Jack Austin was overall runner-up.

Former Wade Deacon pupil, Jessica, aged 18, of Mayfair Grove, Widnes, said: “I always enjoy singing when the pressure is on and it’s good preparation with my university auditions coming up.

“I was really surprised to win my section.”

Jessica is studying performing arts.

Former SS Peter & Paul College student Jack, aged 18, a science scholar, of Hampton Drive, Widnes, said: “I am fascinated with the relationship that music has with maths. They both take abstract concepts that you can be incredibly creative with.

“I was thrilled with the results and really pleased to be the runner up of the whole competition.”

David Lloyd Mostyn, head of music, said: “I am really proud of Jack and Jess who performed wonderfully.”