A former New Malden schoolboy has sung his way to the semi-final of smash hit talent show The Voice after wowing audiences with his quirky take on bold vocals and classic tracks.

Vince Kidd chose singing sensation Jessie J as his mentor after winning the approval of all four coaches when auditioning for the BBC One programme, which is searching for the UK’s next great voice.

The 22-year-old has impressed with his vocal range applied to songs by musical legends including Whitney Houston, Elvis and Madonna, and last week won the audience’s vote propelling him into the semi-final on Saturday, May 26.

He said: "I feel fantastic obviously.

"I had my reservations, I was pretty scared, actually petrified. But to have the public behind you is the best feeling, that’s my main highlight."

The former Malden Manor Primary School pupil said his main musical influence has been Amy Winehouse and although he always struggled to conform he has never been afraid to be himself.

He said: "I think music is really exciting at the moment and that someone like me from the suburbs can be on a TV show like this.

"Growing up I wanted to be a gospel singer which everyone thinks is hilarious. I loved Sister Act. As I grew up I got more rebellious and got into hip hop and rock."

The self-confessed "misfit" described the experience as "amazing" and said it has given him the platform he needed to put his music out to the world after penning his first album.

He said he has yet to decide on a song for the semi-final but said he has always chosen tracks he likes with the help of mentor Jessie J, who he describes as a "big sister".

He said: "Overall I think it’s a very strong semi-final and I think it’s going to be a good show. It will be pretty emotional, tense and exciting. Live TV turns me on; you never know what’s going to happen."