A TALENTED musician’s achievements struck a special chord when she was presented with an award named in memory of her great-uncle.

Rebecca Wallace, 17, was one of the successful members of her school’s concert band who finished in first place at Inverclyde Music Festival.

The accomplished percussionist was delighted to accept the Robert Burrows Trophy on behalf of St Columba’s High.

Rebecca said: “I was told that I could go up and collect the trophy — it was quite special because there was a family connection.

“I’m sure my great-uncle would have been proud.”

Rebecca, who lives in Gourock with mum Colette, dad Joseph and younger sister Heather, has studied percussion for the last six years and hopes to pursue her passion at Napier University in Edinburgh.

Colette, head teacher at St Michael’s Primary in Port Glasgow, said the presentation was a proud moment for all the family.

She said: “My uncle Robert was always very proud of his nieces’ and nephews’ achievements and I am sure he will be smiling down on their continuing successes.

“It was very moving to see Rebecca collect the trophy on behalf of the band.”

Mrs Wallace says her family decided to dedicate a trophy to her uncle Robert because of his love of the festival.

She said: “My uncle Robert always loved hearing the sound of the concert bands in the competition and always said it was a shame that there was no trophy in this category.

“When he passed away the family donated a trophy to this festival category in his memory, as a tribute to someone who loved and encouraged the musical development of others.”

Rebecca, who finished second in the Orchestral Percussion Solo class by playing the marimba, helps out with Inverclyde Schools Concert Band on Saturday mornings at Clydeview Academy and was recently accepted for the National Youth Orchestra of Scotland.

She says she is grateful to her family, music staff at St Columba’s and her tutors Miss Wilkes and Miss Wilkins.

Her biggest fan is her grandpa Albert Burrows, 81, who has been at all her competitions and performances.

Head teacher Nicola Devine said: “Everyone here at St Columba’s is extremely proud of the concert band and Rebecca — it’s a lovely story.”