A SINGER from Basingstoke is a step away from performing in front of thousands at the O2 in London.

Luke Upton has made it through the regional stages of Open Mic UK, after wowing the judges at Portsmouth Guildhall.

Thousands of acts from across the UK entered the national competition, which is for unsigned talent.

In Portsmouth, Luke sang in front of a live audience and professional judging panel.

And the 20-year-old will now go through to the next stage at the area final this month, which is also in Portsmouth.

If he is successful he will perform at the O2 and be in with the chance of winning the competition and securing a recording contract, £30,000 investment and the chance to tour the UK.

The young man gave up his insurance job to become a club singer, after judges on ITV’s The X-Factor told him he needed more singing experience.

He managed to get through to The X-Factor Boot Camp last year and was one of the final 10 men.

But judge Simon Cowell told him he needed to learn his craft.

Luke said: “It confirmed what I wanted to do. I want a singing career.”

At the Open Mic UK auditions, Luke sang Michael Buble’s Feeling Good.

He said: “The judges said it was a polished performance and that I had good vocals. They said it was what they were looking for.

“Singing at the Guildhall was incredible. So many amazing artists have sung on the same stage.”

The former Brighton Hill Community College pupil lives with his parents in Western Way, South Ham.

He said: “They are really supportive and when I do my shows around the clubs, they come and watch.”

Luke is now preparing for the next stage of the competition on November 27, but has not yet decided what to sing.