A CHOIRMASTER, who helped steer five boys into the Choirboy of the Year competition - two into the finals - has retired after 31 years.

Edward Scott, 66, former head of music at Ermysted's Grammar School, Skipton, became choirmaster and organist at Holy Trinity Church, Skipton, in 1969.

"I have very much enjoyed the work, but it is very demanding and I would now like more time for myself," said Mr Scott, of Embsay.

Mr Scott introduced a girls' choir for the first time at Holy Trinity three years ago and at his retirement service on Sunday, the boys and girls choirs joined forces to sing their farewells.

His introduction to singing began when he was a choirboy at the tender age of seven. He also had piano and organ lessons before taking an apprenticeship at St Margaret's Church, Horsforth.

By the time he was 16, he was an accomplished organist and took his first job at St John's Church, Idle. He was there for two years before leaving to do his national service.

He resumed his passion for music as organist for the Congregational Church in Saltaire, before moving to Riddlesden, Bradford and eventually Skipton.

His love of the community spirit in Skipton meant he stayed 31 years, serving under three different vicars before retiring last week.

"We had three choir practices a week, services on a Sunday and anything that happened during the week. It was trying but I will miss all of it," said Mr Scott.

He added that he would definitely go on playing as members of the church had bought him the complete works of Bach in appreciation of his time at Holy Trinity.