YOUNG performers hit the high notes as they took to the stage as Inverclyde Music Festival returned for the first time in three years.

It was an emotional day for President Isabel Lind as she took great pride in welcoming all the musicians back through the door.

Opening day was dedicated to the woodwind instrumentalists and vocalists, who were banned from playing in public during the pandemic.

In her opening speech Isabel celebrated the return of Inverclyde Music Festival for its 96th year.

Speaking to the Tele afterwards she said: "It is important to remember that playing woodwind instruments and singing were actually banned in Scotland during the pandemic.

"It has been a very difficult time for these young people in particular.

"So I think it is very welcome that they are the first on the stage.

"This is a major celebration to have them here today and to hear them play.

"We have not been able to stage the music festival since 2020 and it is so significant that it is back.

"I am delighted with the support as always, we have around 800 young people taking part."

The first of class on stage was the Woodwind Solo 18 years and under.

Clarinet player Ben Mullan, from Notre Dame, 14, was named winner.

Ben said: "The last three years have been very difficult because we were not able to play woodwind.

"I missed playing with other musicians and taking part in concerts and playing in the school bands

"It is great to be back."

He was joined by fellow Notre Dame pupils Maeve Smith and Lucy McLean, both playing the flute.

Third year pupil Maeve added: "We feel full of joy to be playing again."

Port Glasgow High pupil Skye Moore was taking part in her first ever festival performance.

The third year pupil added: "I have been playing the flute since I was eight years old but this is the first time I have entered the festival.

"I felt so sad when I couldn't play and it was all online because of Covid.

"I am so happy to be able to play again."

To celebrate a new age in 2023, the Music Festival launched their first ever digital programme and new contactless technology.

Mrs Lind added: "It is a big year because we are also modernising as well with our new method of paying using contactless.

"We are also paperless with our new QR code to download the programme."

The festival faced an uphill struggle to even take place this year with a shortage of volunteers.

Last May Mrs Lind launched an appeal for help in the Tele and a number of people came forward to offer their assistance.

Mrs Lind has thanked all the young people taking part, the schools, the adjudicators and the organising committee for their commitment.

She also acknowledged the loss of stalwarts including Donnie McDonald, vice president, Michael Mills, Mike Kimpton and life members Jess Boyd and Joan Duthie who also passed away.

Mrs Lind added: "They will always be remembered and are sadly and greatly missed."