A TALENTED Gourock teenager is banging the drum for the Inverclyde Music Festival after winning an award for his outstanding performance.

Clydeview Academy pupil Ally Terrey was awarded ‘First in Class’ at the highly-competitve Drum Kit 18 years and under class at the festival.

On top of triumphing in the contest, the 14-year-old was also given special recognition for gaining 90 points, which is classed as an ‘outstanding’ score.

Speaking to the Tele, Ally said: “I’m really happy.

“I started playing drums about five years ago.

“I like it as they are such a fun instrument to play.

“I would like to go on and be in a band.”

Ally wowed the adjudicator with his impressive version of ‘Little Monster’ — a hit by UK rock band Royal Blood.

His drumming teacher Lesley McLaren, who runs the Hit Squad school from her studio in Gourock, as well as playing with Claire Grogan’s Altered Images, said she is very proud of Ally’s achievement.

She said: “I’m delighted he’s received this recognition, he’s on the right road to a career in music.

“All the hard work Ally has put in has paid off with this award.

“I don’t need to ask him to practice, which is very important to developing your skill set. His work ethic shines through and he has come on in leaps and bounds the last couple of years.

“He’s some player!

“I would be confident of handing him a gig of mine once he has a bit of live experience.”

Ally is keen to make his musical dream come true and is asking any groups who are looking for a talented drummer to contact the Hit Squad on 07949 274222.