Twenty-year-old Benjamin Price won a gold medal and a £200 grant towards his music studies after impressing judges in the vocal solo for 15-20 year olds at the event at Llangollen.

"I was really pleased to win, but the most important thing for me was being able to get in there and compete against some really talented people from all over the world," he said.

"I always say it's very important to put yourself up against people at your level or above as much as you can, to see where you stand."

Ben –– who took up singing when he joined High Oakham Primary School's choir aged eight –– now receives coaching from local music teachers Pamela Cook, who has played a huge part in the success of Mansfield all-girl choir Cantamus, and Joy Nicol.

"I think it was the first time I listened to Handel's Messiah that I knew singing was something I wanted to do," he said. "I've spent a lot of time working on my singing. Some people think that you can just be a natural at it, but it takes a lot of practice."

And Ben now hopes the accolade will help him realise his dream of securing a place at one of six prestigious music colleges he has applied.

"It is tough to get in but hopefully winning this will give me that extra edge and secure me a place," he told Chad. "It's my dream to get in and start studying."

LINK: Ben performing at Eisteddfod