THE THIRD time proved to be the charm for an Epping songwriter who triumphed in an international song competition at the weekend.

Lynn Holland, of Theydon Grove, outsang ten finalists from the USA and Ireland to impress judges at the Tipperary International Song of Peace contest on Saturday.

She performed self-penned ballad Who Will Bring in the Light? to take the crown at the third attempt – having reached the finals in 2008 and 2010.

Lynn, who is a professional singer and runs voice workshops in the district, said: “It came as a surprise because the songs were all so good.

“The last two times I didn’t win, so this year I was sitting at the side of the stage listening to the results and thinking ‘oh well, I can have a cup of tea soon’.

“But it was absolutely brilliant to win.”

The contest was founded in 1983 as part of the Tipperary Peace Convention. The annual event includes the presentation of a peace award, with previous recipients including former U.S. president Bill Clinton, Sir Bob Geldof and Nelson Mandela.

Lynn was presented with a crystal trophy and a cheque for €1,500.

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