A Finchley singer has been promoted to the top role in a prestigious cathedral choir.

Grace Stephens-Spada, 12, has moved through the ranks at Salisbury Cathedral's choir to become the Dean's Chorister, the head girl chorister, in time for Christmas and Advent.

The festive season will see the choir performing in 30 services and two major concerts, so four other girls were given senior positions in the choir along with Grace to prepare for the season, while four other probationers were made full members.

Grace's mother, Clare Stephens, said: "Grace loves being a Chorister at Salisbury, and part of a 900 year old tradition. 

"It is a real privilege to have been appointed Head Chorister, and we are all very proud of her achievement. 

"She thrives as part of a team and is very excited to be able to lead the choir this year.”

The girl's choir was introduced in 1991 and occasionally joins with the boys for certain pieces.

Director of Music David Halls said: "This is an exceptionally busy time of year for our choir. They work hard throughout the year but Easter and the Advent-to-Christmas period are particularly taxing.

"As well as all the keys services they also sing for group visitors in December and will perform at churches in the diocese at the start of next year.

"However, all this hard work means that we will be well practised by next year’s Southern Cathedrals Festival, which will be hosted by Salisbury Cathedral in July."

The choir is also recruiting new members at the beginning of November, so for more information on how to become a member or to find tickets to their Christmas concerts, visit the cathedral's website.