A BOLTON opera singing student is following in the footsteps of some of music’s greatest figures — thanks to Bolton Rotarians.

Jenni Bowling has been awarded a place at the world-famous Royal Academy of Music in London, where she is being supported by a Rotary Club trust fund.

The 200-year-old Academy was once home to the likes of Sir Arthur Sullivan of Gilbert and Sullivan and the great conductor Sir Simon Rattle. More recent graduates include Sir Elton John and chart-topping soprano Katherine Jenkins.

Now Jenni, aged 23, is dreaming of following such luminaries in her own musical career.

She was one of only 30 people from 1,000 applicants to win a place on the course, but she feared she would not be able to take up the offer because the fees were too expensive.

The talented young mezzo soprano, of New Tempest Road, Lostock, was determined not to give up, however, and she applied to the Rotary club for help.

After being interviewed by a Rotary club panel she succeeded in winning a grant, which will cover half of her £10,000 course fees.

Jenni said: “I wouldn’t be here if they hadn’t helped me out with the money. It’s just brilliant — I couldn’t have asked for anything more.

“The course is really good, but it’s hard work, and I’m doing 12 hour days.”

When she completes the course, Jenni wants to pursue a career in acting and singing, but also hopes to promote the arts in Bolton by teaching music to children.

The Rotary Club of Bolton Le Moors set up the trust fund to support young, talented people with money left to the club by a previous president, John Marriott.

Jenni will study at the Academy for one year.

Among the Academy’s most distinguished graduates are singer and pianist, Myleene Klass; soprano, Lesley Garrett; singers, Sir Elton John and Annie Lennox; film composer, Michael Nyman; conductor, Sir Simon Rattle and chart-topping soprano Katherine Jenkins.