Christian Cooper has won the 2014 Young Singer of Mann competition, sponsored by the Isle of Man Bank, after a high quality final at the Erin Arts Centre on Sunday.
 
The 13-year-old received the Young Singer of Mann trophy, presented by the Isle of Man Bank, and a framed certificate, plus a glass goblet from the Isle of Man Arts Council.
 
Christian and seven other finalists performed before a near full house.
 
The other finalists were: Robyn-Mae Lawler, from Onchan; Maebh Worthing, from Port Erin; Anna Shimmin, from Braddan; Patrick McCord, from Douglas; Elizabeth Shooter, from Douglas; Alexandra Slater,  from Kirk Michael; and Danielle Dancox, from Onchan.
 
Sunday’s final followed a closely fought semi-final in June when 26 singers were whittled down to a final 12.
Chairman of the judges Dr John Bethell MBE said the final was a ‘great start’ to the 40th anniversary of the Mananan Festival.
‘The jury found it a very difficult task, due to the high standard, to actually award the first prize and title but in the end were unanimous in awarding it to Christian.’
Dr Bethell added, however, that all the finalists were winners. He thanked Isle of Man Bank for its continued support of the event.
Isle of Man Bank Head of Mortgages Stuart Chivers presented Christian with his trophy and certificate, and framed certificates to the seven runners-up.
 
He said afterwards: ‘Once again, the Isle of Man showed what talent we have.
 
‘Isle of Man Bank is always keen to support arts in the community and we are delighted for Christian – and congratulate all the finalists, who showed a great deal of talent.’
 
Photo - Stuart Chivers, Head of Mortgages at Isle of Man Bank, with the finalists in the Young Singer of Mann competition, including winner Christian Cooper.