TEENAGE soprano Ruby Hendry has gained a distinction in a new diploma.

Ruby, 18, took the first-ever Singing Diploma created by the Associated Board of the Royal Schools of

Music. Previously, the performing examinations ended with Grade 8 but, this year, the board introduced an advanced grade, with the first entries in March.

A student at Bradford Grammar School, Ruby has been studying singing with Ilkley tenor James Griffett for eight years and, following her A levels, will begin studying at Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester in September. She is well known locally for appearances with theatre groups such as the Upstagers, and for winning trophies at music festivals around Yorkshire. Last year she scooped a clutch of awards in the Wharfedale Festival of Performing Arts.