A SINGING tutor and her pupils are in fine voice after adding two coveted accolades to their collection.

Suzie O'Donoghue, founder of Songbird Singing, was thrilled to accept the 'Inverclyde Rights of the Child' award on behalf of her 70 students.

The award honours organisations who build their knowledge and practice of children's rights.

The mum-to-be, who founded her flourishing business four years ago, is overjoyed that Songbird is the first private firm to receive the award in the district.

Suzie told the Tele: "The children are all so chuffed to have received the award.

"All the work was carried out by them, I just submitted the paperwork on their behalf.

"To gain the award we had to put a focus on children's rights, so the pupils helped to write them into our learning plan and encouraged their parents and guardians to get involved too.

"I've always said that Songbird belongs to the kids, so this is a big deal for them all.

"I'm so proud of them."

As well as accepting the award on behalf of the group - who also recently triumphed in the recent Inverclyde Inspiration Awards organised by local youngster Leah Canning - Suzie achieved an important personal accreditation during lockdown.

The 31-year-old is now a registered Vocal Health First Aider, meaning she can advise those with vocal health problems and help with rehabilitation exercises.

Suzie said: "This is something very new and I don't think anyone else across Inverclyde offers it.

"This is what people will engage with before they require speech and language therapy.

"I help with voice problems and offer advice and support on how to manage them.

"People don't realise that Songbird is not just for children, but adults too.

"It is a great service and I'm so happy to be able to offer it locally."