A CAROL, 'Nowell, Nowell, Nowell', written by David Wood, from Loughton won the £50 first prize in Epping Phoenix Choir's carol composing competition.

Second was Enid Weaver, from Woodford, who won £30 for her carol 'There's a song in the air', with Timothy Scott's entry, Mary's Lullaby', taking the £20 third prize. The prizes were presented by Epping mayor Matthew Colling.

The entries were performed at the choir's Christmas concert at St John's Church, Epping, with the Aurelian Brass Ensemble and Chorale Cantando.