THIS year's Scunthorpe Musical Festival got off to a great start – thanks to the standards of children competing.

Adjudicator Ann Warr said she was very impressed with the standards overall from the children

She said: "What has amazed me is how every single child who took part spoke clearly and could be heard at the back of the room.

"And if I am not mistaken these children are not coming from private tuition but are taught in schools.

"The general teaching for all the children is very good to get up and have the confidence to speak with clarity to an audience is fantastic.

This is not just a competition it is helping them develop life skills."

MrsWarr said throughout the week long speech and drama festival, she is looking for clarity and communication skills among participants.

She added: "I am also looking to see the children enjoying themselves and having an enjoyment of English literature."

The festival will take place all week.

For more details and a full list of winners, buy today's Scunthorpe Telegraph.