A young musician from Stratford has been selected to represent the borough in the brand new Young Orchestra for London.

Sophia Clairmont, 12, will perform with the orchestra on February 12 and 15 in central London.

The newly formed 100-piece mixed-ability orchestra is a joint education project between Southbank Centre and the Barbican Guildhall in collaboration with the London Symphony Orchestra.

It is made up of youngsters aged between 11 and 21.

Sophia, who has been playing the violin for four years, said: “I was really surprised when my Mum got the call saying I’d been selected! I felt scared and really nervous.

“My Mum reassured me and said that I wasn’t the only one feeling that way and it would be a great experience, where I would meet lots of other children and learn new things.

“I am enjoying playing with the other people and listening to them play as well. I am happy I have joined the orchestra and it has inspired me to play in a large orchestra.

“I am excited about playing in the concerts. My family and one of my school friends are coming to the concerts.”