A SCHOOL choir has reached the semi-finals of a national competition.

Lindley Junior School Choir will take the stage at The Lowry Arts Centre, Salford Docks, Manchester, for BBC Radio 3's Choir of the Year contest.

The choir will appear on February 5 and 6 next year.

Lindley Junior will be among six semi-finalists in the 14 and under children's choir category.

The finals will be on February 20.

Both events will be broadcast on Radio 3 and the final will be screened on BBC 4.

The national winner will receive a commission and the choir will represent the UK in the European Broadcasting Union's Let the People Sing competition.

Roger Wright, controller of BBC Radio 3, said: "The standard of amateur choirs in this country is truly exceptional.

"The competition is a superb showcase for that choral talent."