A TRIO of spellbinding singing sensations have successfully secured their spot in the final of a prestigious national competition.

Songbird Singing have been named as finalists in the 'Most Loved Music, Dance or Performing Arts' category in the national What's On 4 Kids Awards.

As well as the local singing group being in the running for a title, founder Suzie O'Donoghue is hoping to be named 'Most Loved Activity Leader' in Scotland and Northern Ireland.

The Songbird team - made up of Suzie and fellow vocal coaches Stephanie Lavelle and Romy Campbell - will be attending the final in November, taking place at the Warner Brothers Studios in London.

Suzie, now on maternity leave from her role, told the Tele: "This is a really exciting thing for Songbird and it is even better that we've managed to be finalists when it's such a large competition.

"We were very lucky that we were able to survive during the lockdown.

"We couldn't do what we do or get nominated for things like this without the support of the families.

"Songbird is much more than singing lessons - it's a place where we really focus on the wellbeing of the young people and ensure they are feeling well mentally too."

The trio will go for gold at a ceremony which will be held in the original Harry Potter Hogwarts Great Hall film set, before having an exclusive tour and dessert on the famous Platform 9 ¾.

Delighted to be attending is big Potter fan Romy, who originally started with Songbird as a pupil before joining as a staff member.

The 18-year-old Portonian said: "I am a big Harry Potter fan, so I'm so excited about this.

"The children are buzzing that they are up for this awards, it's a really big deal.

"I've never been to the London Harry Potter Studios, so I'm very excited.

"It will be a very special night for all of us."