The performers were all contestants in the Twinkle Twinkle Be A Star talent contest held at the Spa Centre this month.

Among their number was Christina Shinkwin who was surprised at Myton School on Tuesday by competition organiser Sue J Willis.

The 16-year-old was voted winner of the People's Choice trophy by the show's audience for her performance of Lulu's hit Shout.

Miss Willis said: "She did really well and was the clear winner.

"The show was absolutely fantastic and all the performances were of a really high standard. When you hear about kids getting such a bad press it's such a pleasure to see them doing wonderful things."

Open auditions for the contest were held in September and six finalists appeared in the under 11s category and 12 in the section for 11 to 16-year-olds.

Warwick Gates' Melissa Emeney, 16, came top in over 12s section and was the overall winner for her rendition of How Do I Live Without You by LeAnn Rimes. She said: "I was really surprised that I had won both trophies. I really enjoyed myself.

"I have been singing since I was five and have done lots of competitions."

The former Aylesford School pupil hopes to study performing arts and become a singer.

It was the contest's second year and the winners were picked by five independent judges including the manager of Rugby Theatre, Mike Allan.

Miss Willis added: "We would like to make this an annual event. Everybody thoroughly enjoyed it and we are hoping for even bigger and better things next year. I would like to thank all the people who supported it."

The young people will be performing at the switch-on event after the Tree of Light is illuminated on Sunday at 4.30pm.

Winners - 11-16 category: 1st Melissa Emeney, 2nd Jake Greenway, 3rd Felicity Whiston. Under 11 category: 1st Hannah Woof, 2nd Amy Thomas, 3rd Conner Jones.