SOPHIE Hawes, 16, from Chepstow, is competing for a place in the Open Mic talent contest national final at The O2 in London and the chance to grab a breakthrough recording contract.

Sophie plays covers and her own original songs at local gigs. She taught herself the guitar at the age of 13 and has been singing for six years and writing songs for the past two years.

She says she is delighted to have been picked for the regional finals.

"It as has always been a dream of mine to be in the music business and to play my own songs in front a crowd," she said.

"I enjoy every gig I play and I am extremely grateful for this opportunity and I feel so honoured to have been chosen."