SINGING teacher Janette Davies is celebrating an amazing double with two of her star York pupils, whom she has taught since the age of eight.

First came the success of York Minster chorister Isabel Suckling, 12, who has hit the headlines for becoming the youngest girl ever to secure a recording contract with Decca for classical music.

Now 15-year-old Jessica Holgate has reached the finals of the prestigious Chorister Of The Year competition, which will take place at St Paul’s Cathedral in London next month.

Janette, whose son Alex is the lead singer and songwriter with the acclaimed York rock band Elliot Minor, is thrilled with the two girls’ success. She said: “It gives me such pleasure and satisfaction to see both Isabel and Jessica doing so well. They both have great natural talent and are prepared to work very hard to make the most of it.

“Isabel has deservedly hit the headlines, and we can’t wait to hear her album, The Choirgirl, which is released in November.

“I am equally thrilled for Jessica. It will be a wonderful experience for her to sing at St Paul’s and I believe she will do very well indeed in the competition.”

Isabel’s mother, Catherine, said Janette had made a massive contribution to her daughter’s success.

“She is a fabulous teacher, who is always prepared to go the extra mile for her pupils.”

Jessica sings at St Olave’s church in York, having previously been a Minster chorister.

Janette teaches the choristers at York Minster during morning rehearsal as well as teaching at The Minster School and privately from her home in Wheldrake.

The demonstration CD for Jessica for the Chorister Of The Year competition was produced by Alex in his own studio in Wheldrake.