A LOCAL singer has won a prestigious place at the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester.

Charlotte Mason completed her A Levels at Malvern St James last summer and will shortly be heading to Australia as part of her preparation for the course.

She will spend six months working with vocal specialist Cheryl Pickering and hopes to be singing in operas during her stay.

Lynne Linder, director of music at MSJ, said: “I am absolutely delighted. Charlotte is one of the most outstanding pupils I have ever taught and it is wonderful that she has won this coveted place against huge competition.”