Bas hits the right note with kids VIOLINIST Bas Barker decided to reward amateur theatricals of note.

Keen to encourage young members of the Three Towns Operatic Society, the long-serving professional musician decided to donate a trophy to the best newcomer each year.

At the group's recent successful new production of "The Yeoman of the Guard", the award was presented jointly to Ben Warbis and Andrea Hayes.

Culcheth High School pupil Ben has been with the society for three years and plays the piano and trumpet. He is a dance pupil at Kathleen Atherton's Academy of Dance and enjoys gymnastics and in-line skating.

Lowton High School student Andrea gave her first performance with the group this time. She lists her interests as dancing, hockey and netball.

Both were delighted to receive the trophy from Bas, who has worked at the BBC for many years, and toured with stars such as Shirley Bassey.

He has led the professional orchestra which accompanies The Three Towns for 32 years, and donated the cup to encourage new members who enjoy singing and have a yearning to tread the boards.

The society is in rehearsal for the annual concert on November 10 at Lowton Civic Hall.

Anyone interested in joining the group should contact 01942 897053. CUP WINERS: Bas with Andrea and Ben