AN OPERA singer with her sights set on the big stage is taking time out from her hectic training schedule to entertain finalists at this year's York Community Pride Awards.

Demelza Stafford will be a familiar face to shoppers and visitors to York after impressing crowds with a rich medley of numbers while busking in the city centre over summer.

Now the city's unsung heroes will be treated to her talents at a glittering ceremony on October 20 when the award winners will be announced.

"It is lovely to be involved in the awards," said Demelza, from Hambleton, near Selby, who is undertaking a two-year post-graduate training at the prestigious Royal College of Music.

"I think it is a very worthwhile cause if it helps everyone to realize what people do for them in their own community. It is going to be a lovely occasion."

The 24-year-old former Selby High and York Sixth Form College student has previously performed at weddings, dinners, receptions and charity concerts.

She was one of 12 singers out of 300 applicants to win a place in 2001 at London's Guildhall School of Music and Drama from where she achieved a 2:1 in her Bachelor of Music degree.

Demelza, who intends to perform popular arias and light numbers, is also looking forward to returning to North Yorkshire to sing at a number of private functions over the coming months.

The Community Pride Awards recognise people who have made outstanding contributions to life in our city. In April, we asked for your nominations for those deserving of recognition.

Our search for unsung heroes has focused on charity fundraisers, volunteers, health service hero, community projects, best primary and best senior school projects among others.

There will also be an award for our York Community Pride Person Of The Year.

Since the campaign was launched a wealth of entries about people from all walks of life have arrived on our doormat.

Stories which have come to light include youngsters showing astonishing bravery in battling cancer; teenagers who have dedicated their spare time to valuable community projects; volunteers who quietly work behind the scenes for their favourite local charity or care group - and tireless health service workers who have gone beyond the call of duty in caring for their patients.

Local shops which have demonstrated outstanding customer care have also been recognised in our awards.

Our panel of judges has carefully considered all the nominations and come up with a list of three finalists who have been shortlisted in each category.

To book Demelza, phone 07939 579782 or 07811 466550.

Updated: 10:21 Wednesday, September 28, 2005