A TEENAGE singer from Worcester is keeping her fingers crossed as she prepares to entertain audiences and judges in the regional final of the UK’s biggest original music competition.

Worcester College of Technology student Becky Wynne, who is studying an extended diploma in performing arts, will take to Sheffield City Hall on Sunday, March 25, for Live and Unsigned, hoping she has what it takes to progress further.

The 17-year-old battled with hundreds of acts to secure a slot at the live show, which attracts more than 40,000 entries each year, and she will now face industry judges from BBC Radio One, Kerrang!, NME, BBC Introducing as well regional press and record labels.

“To get through to the regional finals was such an amazing feeling. I had lots of doubts at first as there were a lot of talented performers auditioning. I feel very proud of myself as I have now been given an opportunity to perform in front of a large audience and music industry judges.“ As well as recognising the huge opportunity the competition presents, Becky is quick to acknowledge the role played by her friends, family and teachers in getting her there.

“I’m not only doing this for myself but for everybody who has supported and helped me with everything I have done, so the sense of achievement I feel is overwhelming.

“I wouldn’t have got through without the support of my family or the confidence the Worcester College of Technology has given me.

“So fingers crossed for the regional finals and hopefully I can progress even further.”

She also hopes it could provide a platform to fulfil her ambitions.

“I do a few pub gigs in my spare time at the moment, although I would like to take it that step further and perform in front of larger audiences.

“I have slowly climbed further and onto bigger things throughout my teenage years, so hopefully that will continue for me and I can be successful with my singing.”

The ultimate goal takes the form of the grand final at Live Fest in The 02 in London on Saturday, July 14, with £100,000 of prizes up for grabs along with festival slots at home and abroad. For more information, go to liveandunsigned.uk.com/tickets/purc hase.