A MUSICIAN who takes inspiration from a borough nature reserve has won a major music competition.

Louis Clark's composition 'Siluria - the Dudley Bug' topped the competition organised by renowned Hagley composer Andrew Downes.

The competition was open to Midlands composers, who had to produce a ten-minute piece for a symphonic orchestra.

Music teacher Louis, aged 43, beat off strong opposition which included Old Swinford Hospital School's 17-year-old Matthew Eden, principal brass trombonist with the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain.

Three pieces were selected for the final which were performed by the Central England Ensemble at Old Swinford Hospital School's Foleyan Centre.

Anna Downes, head of instrumental studies at the school, said: "Both the audience and the orchestra were allowed to vote for the piece they liked the most, which counted for 50 per cent of the vote."

The other 50 per cent was provided by the judges - OSH director of music Tony Bridgewater, music shop owner Nathan Rose and Andrew Downes himself.

Louis, from Birmingham, said: "We did a geology trip to Wrens Nest when I was at school and it made a big impression upon me.

"I based the piece on Wrens Nest and I was absolutely over the moon to win.

"I've never lost my love for Wrens Nest and still visit the place three or four times a year."

A number of OSH pupils and staff play in the Central England Ensemble which has now based itself at the school.