An exceptional teenage musician from Sturminster Marshall has won the 2021 Dee Butterfield Scholarship for Young People and plans to put his scholarship towards a new saxophone.

Tom Sheppard, 17, stunned the Mackrell Charity Memorial with his lecture on The Battle of Hastings who awarded him the title and £250.

Tom said: “I have always loved music so I jumped at an opportunity to learn the saxophone.

“Seven years later, I’m still enjoying it and have found it an excellent way to relieve stress from schoolwork.

“I am incredibly thankful for the Dee Butterfield Scholarship.”

Tom, is involved in a number of school bands and has participated in many performances, including playing at the Swanage Jazz Festival.

Katy Norman from the Mackrell Charity said: “Tom is a talented and committed musician and the charity is delighted to be able to make a contribution to the future of this aspiring young man.”

The annual scholarship was set up in memory of Dee Butterfield, the charity’s former president and inspiration, to provide an opportunity for a young person to pursue a personal ambition.  Young people aged between 11 and 19 who live near the town, are encouraged to apply for the award next year.

Applications must be received by midnight June 30, 2022, and should be sent to: The Mackrell Charity, c/o The Old School, Church Street, Sturminster Marshall, BH21 4BU.