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A childhood interest in music looks as if it might lead a Calderdale teenager into an exciting career.

Matthew Shaw, now 15 and a student at North Halifax Grammar School, was six when he took up he trumpet.

He is hoping to realise his ambition of playing with the famous Black Dyke Band, based in Queensbury, who have supported him, along with music charity Northern Orchestral Enterprises (Noel), by giving him a professional cornet.

Noel chief executive Liz Wilde explained that Matthew was one of five children selected and mentored by the band under the Future heroes project.

"We auditioned people from Calderdale secondary schools who were thought to have
the extra special thing and just needed that guidance to become future heroes," she said.

Noel partnered with the Community Foundation for Calderdale and the Gartland Trust, to raise funds for the cornet that was used by Richard Marshall, principal cornet player with Black Dyke.

Ms Wilde added: "Matthew's connection with the band means he can take his playing to the next level, on an instrument used by one of his heroes."

Matthew currently plays with Hebden Bridge Brass Band, Yorkshire Youth Brass Band, Elland Youth Brass Band as well as various school bands.

Black Dyke Band was founded about 150 years ago.

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