A HUDDERSFIELD choir has made it through to the semi-finals of BBC Radio 3's Choir of the Year.

Lindley Junior School's choir will battle it out with 17 other choirs from across the UK in the junior section of the competition at The Lowry arts centre in Salford on February 5.

Fifty-seven youngsters from the school will take part.

The semi-finals and final will be broadcast by Radio 3 on February 20 and 21 and BBC 4 on February 26.

The choir, founded in 1999, has already tasted success. It was crowned Northern Junior Choir of the Year in 2001.

The children, who rehearse at the school in George Street, have also appeared at the Northern Festival of Youth Music and Songs of Praise.

Teacher and conductor Alison Watkins said: "This is the first time we have entered the competition and are delighted to be in the semi-finals.

"There is great excitement among the choir members and their parents. The audition round was a tremendous experience for the children and one which tested their skills.

"It was the undoubted highlight of what had been a busy year for them in local concerts and festivals.

"We look forward to February 5 and another opportunity to sing in a fabulous venue and to perform alongside, and listen to, music-making of a high standard," she added.

Radio 3 controller Roger Wright said: "Radio 3 is proud to be at the heart of the nation's creative community. We are delighted to be able to present the first Radio 3 Choir of the Year contest.

"The standard of amateur choirs in this country is truly exceptional and the competition is a superb showcase for that choral talent," he said.

Tickets for the semi-final can be bought from The Lowry's box office on 0870 787 5780 or by logging on to website www.thelowry.com