Practice helped two young speechmakers overcome their nerves to win a school competition.

St Teresa’s School, in Brook Road, has held its annual Speakers Cup competition for the last ten years.

Pupils are given the opportunity to speak for five minutes about their chosen topic to their classmates, who then vote to send one person from each year group to the final.

At the final on Friday, the six finalists gave talks to their fellow pupils and parents as part of an assembly, while school governors, support staff and past winners of the cup acted as judges.

Head teacher Teresa McBride announced the overall winners to be Year 6 pupil Matthew Feeney and Year 1 boy Stanley Mackay O'Flynn.

Stanley, who did his presentation on the World Cup, said: "I was excited but nervous when I did my speech. I had practised three times and my big sister helped me. I am really happy that I won."

Matthew, who is in his final year at St Teresa’s, gave his speech on his time at the school.

He said, "I was nervous at first but alright when I started. I had practised a few times in front of my family and friends. I feel great now that I have won."

The winners were awarded cups, while the remaining finalists were presented with medals for their hard work.