An 11-year-old vocalist beat all the older contestants in her category and won a national singing competition.

Charish Tetteh, from South Ockendon, wowed the judges at the Make Believe singing competition by belting out a Prince classic.

She won the over 11’s category of One Dream - beating youngsters aged up to 18 - on Saturday 7 October at Stratford Circus Theatre.

Charish sang her rendition of ‘Purple Rain’ by and wowed the judges with her performance scooping away £1000 in cash as her prize.

Charish who has been singing since the age of 6 dreams of being in the music industry and with this competition she has taken a step in the right direction.

Charish said: “I felt so happy, emotional and overwhelmed.

"It was such a good feeling as I’ve always known that; believing in yourself and having determination, hard work and confidence can lead to success.”

Charish’s mum, Mavis Tetteh, said: “We felt ecstatic when our daughter’s name was announced as the winner in her category of One Dream.

"It was spectacular and such a remarkable moment which completely stunned us. We believe that aspiring to do your best at every given opportunity wherever you are is a key to success.”

Charish has said she will spend the money on developing her singing and buying herself a musical instrument.

Hundreds of children from across the UK attended the auditions for their chance to win the large sum of money and were whittled down to just 30 to perform on the stage in front of a huge audience. With 2 categories, the under 10’s and 11-18, the winner from each category winning £1,000 each.

The judging panel included the founder of Make Believe, Joel Kern, along with senior talent agent Eilidh McCole and industry professional Emma Murphy.

Founded by Joel Kern in 2004 Make Believe have 50 schools in and around London, Australia and most recently Manchester, teaching youngsters the basic skills in the performing arts. 

Kern, who started Make Believe aged 15 by teaching five students to sing, dance and act, has seen the company grow into one of the most exciting performing arts companies with around 3500 children enjoying the after-school classes on a weekly basis. 

Joel said: “Make Believe is all about giving young people an opportunity to fulfil their hopes and dreams on stage. I would like to say a huge well done to all the young people that took part and a very special congratulations to Charish for being the senior winner of the competition!”