A MUSIC teacher who helps young people in St Albans break into the world of music has been nominated for an award which recognises her passion and dedication.

For the last 20 years Jane Cutler has volunteered her own time and developed the DaCapo Music Foundation, a registered charity, to give children who do not have an opportunity to access music through education a chance to get involved.

Jane runs music classes at Marshalswick Baptist Free Church once a week and was delighted to be nominated for an Inspiring People award, launched by the St Albans Review newspaper and local solicitors Debenhams Ottaway.

Andrew Blankfield, who nominated Jane for the award, described her as a "truly inspirational teacher" who has taught his two daughters. He said thanks to Jane his older daughter has continued to learn the cello and plans to read music at university.

Speaking about the nomination, Jane said: "I was really shocked to find out, but also touched. It's nice to know people are inspired by what I do.

"My work is extremely rewarding. I work with young people who don't have the opportunity to enjoy music in their life."

Over the next year the awards will give recognition to those who have inspired the district's youth to achieve their best.

Click here to nominate someone for the Inspiring People awards