Hayden is Young Musician of the Year

Talented young musician Hayden Manuell from Stone has been named Staffordshire Young Musician of the Year after coming out tops in the final of this year’s competition.

Hayden, a student at Alleynes High School, took on 24 other talented young musicians in the final on 14th July at Staffordshire Performing Arts in Stafford.

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The 19-year-old, who plays the clarinet, won the prestigious title and £200 and will now be performing at several prominent county concerts throughout the year, showcasing his skills to a wide variety of people across Staffordshire.

Runner-up Richard Jones, 16, from Kings Wood, received £50 and each finalist was given a HMV voucher worth £20, all sponsored by the Friends of Staffordshire Young Musicians (FOSYM).

County councillor Liz Staples, cabinet member for education and skills, said: “It was certainly hard to pick a winner as the calibre of musicianship was incredibly high, but on the night Hayden proved that he was definitely worthy of the title. I want to congratulate Hayden on his win, and all of the other talented musicians who took part in the final.”