It normally takes years of study to achieve, but it took a musician from Sheringham just eight months.

Lys Morgan-Hart, Director of Music at St Peter's Church, Sheringham, has been awarded The Archbishops' Certificate in Church Music.

She is the only musician in the UK to attain the professional qualification from The Guild of Church Musicians this year and can now append the letters 'ACertCM' after her name.

The degree-level course demands a high level of study and includes various written and practical examinations, as well as extensive portfolio and essay work.

Mrs Morgan-Hart was presented with her award by the president of The Guild of Church Musicians, Dame Mary Archer, and the Bishop of Norwich, The Rt Revd Graham James at a prestigious ceremony in London.

Not only was she successful, but she gained such high marks that The Guild also awarded her The Maynard Prize in recognition of her 'outstanding achievements'.

Following the presentation, Mrs Morgan-Hart said: 'I am really thrilled to have achieved this award. I have been passionate about Church music from a very young age and I continue to be so. I was especially pleased to have so many friends from St Peter's and beyond come to support me - a coach load!

'It was truly such a special occasion, and it has encouraged me to further develop our choral singing at St Peter's to be the best we can be!'