First prize eludes percussionist

Shropshire's Young Musician of the Year finalist Toby Kearney has missed out on the title, despite being thought of as one of the favourites.

Percussionist Toby Kearney, 18, a student at Shrewsbury Sixth Form college, was one of five performing in Gateshead on Saturday.

The BBC competition was won by Mark Simpson, 17, principal clarinetist with the National Youth Orchestra.

Toby's exuberance and bravado were praised by the judges.

Judge Peter Sadlow said: "The players have to use a lot of different instruments and he handled the problems well.

"Especially the drum part with the brass section - it was amazing."