A headteacher is celebrating after reaching the final of a UK songwriting contest.

And today, Brian Beresford revealed how he hopes his triumph is one in the eye for the "instantly forgettable" music being used in the UK's schools.

Mr Beresford, head for the last eight years at Whalley CE Primary School was shortlisted for the UK Songwriting Awards (UKSC) 2006 which attracted over 4,200 entries.

The annual competition is backed by the British Academy of Composers and Songwriters and encourages and promotes songwriting.

And Mr Beresford, 53, hit the right note with Samson's Power' - the title song he wrote for his school's musical - as it was among 16 entries shortlisted in its miscellaneous category.

Despite not going on to win, Mr Beresford was delighted a song written for children held its own with nominees mainly from the world of mainstream pop/rock.

He said: "I hope that the children and staff at the school feel able to share in the success that has come our way.

"I have been writing musicals for many years and people have always asked why I didn't get my music published.

"I really struggle to find good music for children at my school - a lot of the music out there today is instantly forgettable and I want to make music that's instantly likeable."