AN Andover teenager has become a singing sensation after he won the under-17s' regional final of South Coast Idol.

Jake Ward, from Mersey Court, River Way will now compete against 17 other finalists from all over the country for the main prize at the Grand National Final on 26 May in Portsmouth.

If he wins at the final stage Jake, aged 13, will get the chance to record an album and become a support act on various tours.

As well as appearing on stage with all the other regional finalists, Jake will be sharing the stage with Dane Bowers, Lee from Steps and Eton Road and Ben Mills from X Factor 2006.

"I am so shocked as I didn't think I would get through at all because I had been ill the week before," said the Winton School pupil. "It would be amazing to win the whole thing as everyone else competing has had a drama or musical background and I've had nothing," he added.

Jake's mum Kerry is very proud of her son.

"He's done fantastically well and I'm so proud of him," she said.

The judges may have the final say but supporters of Jake can still help him by voting at www.southcoast idol.co.uk Doors open for the under-17 showdown at 4pm.

Tickets are available from www.portsmouthguildhall.co.uk or by calling 02392 824355.