Two budding cellists have bagged themselves scholarships under London mayor Boris Johnson’s fund for young musicians.

Muhammed Dayyan and Toby Woodward, both 9, came through the Tower Hamlets arts and music education service and were among musicians from across London to be awarded scholarships at a ceremony in City Hall last week.

Muhammed, who attends Halley primary school, and Toby, from Malmesbury primary, will benefit from extra tuition and performance opportunities to aid their musical development.

They will also receive mentoring from professional musicians who will liaise with their families and music tutors, as well as free access to a musical instrument.

The London-wide scheme will see a total of �266,000 be allocated to help nurture the talents of young musicians.

Speaking at the launch, Boris Johnson said: “We know that learning a musical instrument can have a powerful impact on a child’s life, helping in their social, emotional and academic development.

“By investing in these scholarships, the fund is enriching the lives of hundreds of children and also making sure London remains the top city in the world for all kinds of music.”