Young Maltese singer Naomi Roberts was last night declared the winner of the Verdinote International Song Festival, held in Battipaglia, Italy.

12-year-old Naomi, of Pieta, was one of eight singers in her category. She sang the song Sogno l'Amore, composed by her teacher Priscilla Psaila and written by Christopher Azzopardi. The music arrangement was done in Italy by Mro Gaetano Cerrato with Gianni Morandi playing the guitar live for the recording.

This was the first international festival Naomi, who has been singing for the past three years.

She was told she had made it to the finals last August.

For Ms Psaila and Mr Azzopardi, this was their second victory in this festival, which they also won last year through young singer Enya Magri, with the song Cucu.

The concert is held annually. This year's edition was the 28th.

Naomi said soon after the result was announced she was proud of honouring her country with her result. She thanked her family and Ms Psaila for their support throughout.