THE winner of this year's annual Margaret Rose Bursary will perform in a concert alongside the Drybrook and District Ladies Choir on Saturday (July 5).

Talented e-flat bass player, George Stratford recently scooped the £750 cash prize after impressing a panel of judges at the final auditions.

Each year the choir awards the bursary in memory of the former musical director and conductor Margaret Rose Burford to young musicians across the Forest who intend to make music part of their future career.

Secretary of the choir, Rae Child said: "The panel felt that George demonstrated great musicality, differentiating his pieces well, drawing the audience into his display to delighted applause."

George is currently studying at GlosCol at Five Acres and plays with several local bands including Forest of Dean Brass Band and Lydbrook Band.

The concert is at Holy Trinity Church in Drybrook and starts at 7pm. George and the choir will also be joined by former bursary winner, Sarah Waycott.

Applicants can apply for next year's bursary at [email protected]">[email protected].