A TALENTED deaf girl is hoping to inspire the next generation after reaching the final of a national performing arts competition.

Alice Carroll from Thatcham will perform in the Raising The Bar competition, which is run by the National Deaf Children's Society.

The 10-year-old girl is moderately deaf, but she has been accepted for her exceptional violin skills.

Alice was awarded a place by the charity and will be performing along with 29 other budding deaf artists on the weekend of April 22-23.

The performance will culminate in a live showcase at the Ruddock Arts Centre in Birmingham, in front of a packed crowd.

Deaf actress Genevieve Barr, who is best known for her role in the BBC drama, The Silence, launched the competition at the beginning of this year.

She said: “I’ve always loved acting, but when I was younger I worried my deafness meant I wouldn’t be able to succeed in it.

“Teachers, family and friends encouraged me to keep working towards my dream, but sadly not everyone gets this support.

“Every deaf child should have the same opportunities as any other child, so I’m thrilled to support Raising the Bar and help shine a spotlight on talented deaf young people.”