A SENSATIONAL young singer's performance with a 'twist' saw her seal top honours at the Inverclyde Music Festival.

Talented vocalist Gabrielle Dickson was thrilled to win the vocal solo competition after singing 'I'd Do Anything' from the hit musical Oliver!

The 12-year-old, who is in S1 at Inverclyde Academy, said she was in shock when her name was read out.

She told the Tele: "I didn't recognise my name when they announced that I'd won.

"It didn't sink in.

"It was quite nerve-racking on stage but I just looked at the back of the room for Mrs Wilson, our singing teacher.

"I really enjoy singing and I like learning different songs."

Celebrations were also under way for Jian Bao, 12, from Clydeview Academy, who achieved second in class for her rendition of 'River Lullaby' from the film The Prince of Egypt.

Jian said: "I don't get nervous, I embrace everything as it comes in the moment.

"My granddad Ian Brown was in the audience with his friend Jenny and my mum Sandra."

Jian's mum said she was so proud of her daughter's performance and that it brought back happy memories for her.

She said: "I sang in the festival when I was a girl so it's really important that we keep the festival going and we try and support it.

"Hopefully all the schools will continue to support the festival.

"Jian loves it.

"It's lovely as the girls all help each other and the adjudicator was brilliant, he gave lots of tips."

Both Gabrielle and Jian performed in the vocal solo - songs from musicals/Disney films category for competitors 12 years and under.

The competition continues this week in Greenock Town Hall before the grand final on Saturday at 7pm.