A TEENAGER from Inverclyde struck just the right chord with judges at the finals of a UK singing contest.

Karen McLeod, 16, was runner-up at the Rotary Young Musician Competition showpiece in Cardiff after winning the Inverclyde and regional rounds.

The Clydeview Academy pupil was also second in the West of Scotland event.

Now she has another accolade to add to her growing collection following the national final at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama on May 6.

Karen said: “I really enjoyed the experience.

“Advancing at each stage was unexpected and very exciting.

“I was very lucky to have so much support from my singing teacher Polly Beck, the Rotary Club of Gourock and parents.
“It’s an experience I will never forget and I’m delighted to have taken part in such a prestigious competition.”

Karen’s journey to the UK final began in September last year when she won her school event and was then selected to represent Clydeview at the Gourock Rotary’s annual young musician contest, which she also triumphed at.

She later took first place at the Scotland and North of England Regional competition before her success in Wales.

The competition is open to all schools and college communities, including those pupils who are home educated, and any other youth organisations such as RotaKids, Scout Groups and Girl Guides.

It is also open to all levels, grades and styles for young instrumentalists and vocalists.

All participants must be in full time education up to the age of 17.

Karen is a pupil of Inverclyde Music Services and is currently studying towards a singing examination as well as preparing for her role of Amber Von Tussle in her school’s performances of Hairspray next month.