A KNUTSFORD Academy pupil is through to the area final of a national singing competition.

Josh Whittaker, 14, competed in the Regional Finals of Open Mic UK in early October, hoping to earn himself a place in the Area Final.

Held at the Royal Northern College of Music in Manchester, Josh was the 17th act, singing 'Stronger than Ever' by Raleigh Ritchie to a great response from the audience.

Once all the acts finished the audience was treated to live performances, as the judges added up their scores and the audience votes were counted.

The judges chose their 'top picks' based on scores in five categories, to go straight through to the area final, then two additional acts were decided using the audience vote.

Josh topped the judges’ highest scores and was automatically put through to the area final.

Josh said: “This is incredible, there were so many amazing people performing today, so pleased to have got through! I’ve had so much support through this, and I can’t thank everyone enough, I’m one step close to the O2 Arena”!”

The Area Final is being held on November 16 at the Royal Northern College of Music and Josh will be competing against acts from all over the North West and Scotland.

For tickets to see him please email joshwhittaker@hotmail.co.uk or visit his facebook page facebook.com/joshwhittakermusic.