A 17-YEAR-OLD pianist and vocalist beat off strong competition to win a talent contest.

Andy Hill, a student at Chester’s Catholic High school, one of 12 finalists in Chester’s Got Talent at the Wesley Church Centre on April 4, came top after wowing judges with his self-penned song, Night Fight.

Second place went to street dance group the MN-8 Crew, with Bethany Staton coming in third with her performance of Leonard Cohen’s Hallelujah.

Organised by Connexions Cheshire and Warrington and The Wesley Church Centre, the contest was open to young people aged between 13 and 19.

Steve Hoy, chief executive for Connexions Cheshire and Warrington said: “The whole evening was fantastic and the standard of talent was exceptionally high.

“All the acts performed really well and can be very proud. Getting to the final was a great achievement!”

Andrew Herbert of the Wesley Church Centre said: “It was great night’s entertainment which is a credit to all those who took part.”