THE Lancashire Sinfonietta has announced the continuation of its award for the North West's young composers - The Christopher Brooks Memorial Prize.

The success of last year's pilot scheme has meant that the organisers are now opening up the competition to applicants all over the North-west.

The winning composition will receive its premiere performance at the opening concert of the Lancashire Sinfonietta's 11th Concert Season in June 2006, while the winner will receive a £1,000 bursary towards their studies and become Young Composer in Residence for the season, working with the orchestra, chamber groups and special education projects.

Full details are available from Fiona Sinclair, General Manager of the Lancashire Sinfonietta on 0161 445 0587 or cbmp@bluefroguk.com