Two young songwriters will take to the stage to perform their own compositions,

Leona Tindall, 14, from St Albans, and Miriam Nyarko, 15, who attended workshops in Watford, took part in the Hertfordshire Music Service's Songwriter programme, before uploading their songs to an online chart.

Now the two girls are preparing to perform at the Hertfordshire Schools' Gala at the Royal Albert Hall on March 11.

Cllr Terry Douris, who is responsible for education, libraries and localism, said: "Songwriter has been running in Hertfordshire since 2002 and has put the county on the map as a place that develops talented, original musicians.

"We are constantly impressed by the standard of the songs being uploaded to the Songwriter chart, but Leona and Miriam really stood out for the maturity and insight of their lyrics, catchy melodies and powerful performances.

"We are delighted to help them perform their own music to such a huge audience and wish them luck on the night."

Leona will perform her song Changes with the backing of her band, while Miriam will perform Rise with fellow songwriter Chiarra Parrella on piano.

Half term workshops will be taking place in Watford on February 13, as well as in Hatfield on February 14 and Hitchin February 16.

To book a place, visit songwriteronline.co.uk