TWO local acts have made it through to the final 50 of a singing competition which could win them a record deal.

Ryan Upton, from South Ham, submitted a cover of John Legend’s All of Me to Negart Records’ Sonic Star competition, for the chance of also winning up to £10,000 cash.

The 21-year-old former Brighton Hill Community School pupil has made it through to the phone vote, and is now hoping Basingstoke people will back him to win.

Ryan, who has supported Britain’s Got Talent finalist Jordan O’Keefe, said: “I have always loved music and when I first picked up a microphone, I realised it was my dream to perform.”

He added: “My career has really taken off and it is going so well for me at the moment. The support I get from my family and fans is what really pushes me to follow my dream, and with people believing in me more it helps me believe in myself.”

Also through to the final 50 are Basingstoke alt rock band Whitewash, who formed in November 2009.

Band members Matt McAuley (drums, backing vocals), Mike Steer (bass) and Alex Jones (lead vocals, lead guitar, keys) have quickly made a name for themselves, writing their own songs.

Lead vocalist Alex said: “If we try hard enough, we can make it big – it just takes effort on our part.

“We’ve been doing this for years now; we need to take it to the next level. If we win we can share our music with everyone – that’s what we want, after all.”

To vote for Ryan, text Negart 37 to 64343. To vote for Whitewash, text Negart 46 to the same number.

Votes cost £1 plus the standard network rate.

Please ensure that you have the bill payer’s permission before voting. The competition closes at midnight on June 30, 2014.