St Aidan's High School pupil Eleonore Cockerham was invited to Rome to perform in front of an audience of nearly 200 of the world's leading lawyers.

She received a standing ovation at the Presidential Dinner of the International Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers after an invitation from the group's president, David Salter of law firm Mills & Reeve.

Mr Salter is organist and choirmaster of St John the Baptist Church in Knaresborough, where Eleonore is a member.

He said: "She is an absolutely outstanding performer with a degree of confidence and composure rare from someone of her age.

"To receive a standing ovation from such a highly discerning audience is no mean feat and I hope this success now opens the door to a budding international career."

Eleonore's musical talent was recognised two years ago when she was awarded a full scholarship with Yorkshire Young Musicians at Leeds College of Music – a centre providing advanced training for 'exceptionally talented' individuals across the region.

Now in her second year, Eleonore combines her studies with five hours of performance training every Sunday.

She said: "I have never performed internationally before and it was a fantastic and exciting experience."