The line-up of finalists for the 2014 Young Singer of Mann, sponsored by Isle of Man Bank, has been confirmed following a close semi-final at the Erin Arts Centre on Sunday.
 
The eight finalists who will compete for the title Young Singer of Mann are: Robyn-Mae Lawler, aged 10, from Onchan; Maebh Worthing, 15, from Port Erin; Anna Shimmin, 12, from Braddan; Patrick McCord, 12, from Douglas; Elizabeth Shooter, 11, from Douglas; Alexandra Slater, 12, from Kirk Michael; Danielle Dancox, 13, from Onchan; Christian Cooper, 13, from Douglas.
 
The award for Most Promising Singer went to Anika Colligan, 10, from Douglas.
 
June 15 is the date for the final, when the winner will receive a cash prize of ?150 and a glass trophy presented by Isle of Man Bank, along with a glass goblet presented by the Isle of Man Arts Council and title 'Young Singer of Mann'.
 
Sunday’s semi-final was introduced by Barbara Gale, with Marilyn Kissack the accompanist.
 
Chairman of the judges Dr John Bethell MBE said it was the largest entry for many years, with 26 singers bidding for a place in the final.
 
He added: ‘The standard from each entrant was truly excellent. We are looking forward to the final.’
 
His fellow judges for the semi-final were Joyce Corlett and Kenny Bawden. For the final they will be joined by Dr Breesha Maddrell and Emma Callin from Isle of Man Arts Council.
 
Isle of Man Bank Head of Community Investment John Lindon said: ‘We are always happy to support arts in the community and, once more, the Young Singer of Mann contest is demonstrating the wealth of talent in our Island.’
 
Photo - The eight finalists, together with most promising singer Anika Colligan, are pictured with accompanist Marilyn Kissack and adjudicators Dr John Bethell MBE, chairman, Joyce Corlett and Kenny Bawden.