A pupil at Ripon’s Outwood Academy is celebrating after winning gold at the World Choral Cup.
Year 7 student Michael Chihobvu is a member of the Choice Children’s Choir of Zimbabwe, which competed at the World Choral Cup in Barcelona.
Competing against 54 choirs, Zimbabwe scooped Gold for its Western performance in the children’s division.
The group also secured a Silver award in the folklore division and was one of a select number of acts to perform at the competition's opening ceremony.

Although known for its traditional Zimbabwean music and dance, the choir gave several performances throughout the competition, singing in a range of languages including Shona, Latin, English and isiNdebele.
Despite being over eight thousand miles away from the rest of the choir, Michael was able to join group rehearsals via video calls and get extra practice in at school break times.
Michael said:
“The competition was a thrilling experience for me after doing most of my practice online.
“I had to wake up very early for rehearsals because of the time difference and I also had to give up my break times to practice in the school music room.
“Winning gold was a huge achievement and it showed me that hard work pays off.”
Michael is currently looking for a local choir to join.


Scarborough’s Alpamare waterpark set to be sold with 99-year car park lease
Starbeck primary unveils new school library
Fountains by Floodlight returns with new show celebrating abbey’s history
Date confirmed for return of Yorkshire Farming Conference in Harrogate
Ripon Runners to host community night run to highlight women's safety
Martin House opens new memorial garden for bereaved families
Harrogate businesses open toilets to public under new council scheme
Mayor joins India trade mission as leaders target £170m boost for Yorkshire
Swan Lake to bring live orchestra and ballet to Harrogate's Royal Hall
How Harrogate's Dragons' Den businesses have fared since the show
New Brazilian-Japanese restaurant to open in Harrogate
North Yorkshire Police loses almost 250,000 hours to sickness amid absence concerns
Harrogate domestic abuse charity launches match-funded appeal
Harrogate MP calls for independent support in army abuse investigation
Scamp & Dude to open Harrogate store tomorrow
Tributes paid to Starbeck postmaster and community champion
New pizza and kebab takeaway to open in Harrogate
Harrogate teenager signs first professional contract with Leeds United
Ripon Library to host free family theatre show this half-term
Ripon artist's global draw-along raises £21,000 for animal rescue charity


