16396/1A TALENTED flautist has been awarded a distinction in a Grade 8 music exam, aged just 11.

Rosie Pearce, a student at St Laurence School, Bradford on Avon, has been playing the flute since she was four.

She was overjoyed when she heard she had passed her Grade 8 Associated Board exam.

As well as playing the flute Rosie plays the piano, violin, guitar and sings.

She was chosen to sing a solo in St Laurence School's carol concert even though she only joined the school in September.

Her proud mother, Elizabeth, said: "She loves being on the stage, performing and singing.

"I was learning the flute when I was pregnant with Rosie so we always thought that might have been why she is talented."

She has also been chosen to play in the National Children's Orchestra, after auditioning in Wells.

Her next challenge will be to take some jazz exams as a change from classical music.