Seven-year-old William Briggs has sung his way to Salisbury Cathedral School with a highly prestigious choristership, just under a year after he took up singing.

After successfully passing a selection process and two voice trials, he will begin as a day pupil at the school in September.

William’s interest in singing was only realised by his parents, Mark and Emma Briggs, a year ago. He asked them if he could join St Mary’s choir, which is based at the Church of St Mary the Virgin in Bishops Cannings. Despite initial worries that he was too young, it wasn’t long before his talent was recognised.

Peter Madeley, St Mary’s choirmaster, said: “He has definitely got a talent. He stands head and shoulders above many youngsters.”

William attended Salisbury Cathedral School choir’s annual open day, Be a Chorister for a Day, with his whole family last November. They spent the day in the beautiful grounds of the cathedral; he took part in Evensong and was given a true taster of life as a choir boy.

William of Fordson Road, Devizes, was subsequently inspired to attend two further voice trials, at which he sang Risen Lord, by Barry Rose.

His talent enabled him to gain a choristership at the school which is one of 39 choir schools in Britain.

The school is home to two choirs that rehearse daily for regular cathedral services.

Emma Briggs, William’s mother, said: “We are really excited but we never anticipated being in this situation.”

William currently attends Bishops Cannings Primary School and has always been a keen footballer, playing for Bishops Cannings football club, aspiring to play like Fernando Torres.

However, off the pitch, William said: “I feel really happy when I sing. I am excited that I get to stay at school.”

His teachers say that William does not just have a talent recognisable in his voice, but also a refreshing enthusiasm for music.

In choir, he is quick to pick up melodies, a skill that will be particularly useful at Salisbury Cathedral School, with services almost daily. He is the first chorister from St Mary’s choir to be selected for a choristership.

Mrs Briggs, 40, said: “William was chosen for his pure talent.”