Students from Colbayns High School certainly hit the right note with judges when they helped fill Clacton Town Centre with music during a busking competition.

The seven youngsters who made up Christmas Crackers picked up the first prize of £250 - and it was handed over by Tendring District Council Chairman Peter Balbirnie at a special presentation in his parlour at Clacton Town Hall

Vocal coach and teacher Abi McCluskey said the students had really enjoyed taking part in the town's first ever busking competition last month.

"The event was a big success and it was great fun - to win the first prize was a bonus," she said. "I am sure they will all enjoy spending their winnings."

Christmas Crackers was made up of Martin Lusher, Rachel Stilwell, Hayley McCudden, Danielle Retter, Sarah Wade, Gemma Townley and Amber Welsh.

Youngsters from Clacton County High took both second and third prizes in the competition.

Cllr Balbirnie was impressed with the standard of entry with more than 20 acts fighting it out for the top places on the day.

"I went along and saw them perform - and I even sang along with some and played instruments with others," he said.

"Whether I helped or hindered I don't know, but it was really good to see all the musicians, singers, magicians and jugglers entertaining the Christmas shoppers and there was a terrific atmosphere."

Tom Herbert and Danny Wales - both music students at Clacton County High School and part of local band Irridium - took second place and won time in a recording studio.

Close Harmony, an eight-member acapella girl group from Clacton County High, was third.

The busking competition was organised by the Council's new town centre manager Joanne Rogers and was supported by the Chamber of Trade and Tourism.

Mrs Rogers was delighted with the response from those taking part, shoppers and traders and hopes to run another event in the summer.