It’s not every day an international pop star tells you she’ll remember you.

But for Maidstone-born singer Amrick Channa, that was among the memorable moments of his appearance on BBC One’s The Voice last night.

The former Oldborough Manor pupil faced the four judges - Tom Jones, Kylie Minogue, will.i.am and Ricky Wilson - after going through a rigorous audition process which began in June last year and meant beating off competition from 50,000 other auditionees to make it onto the show.

The turban-wearing Sikh was supported by his family backstage, who until recently ran the newsagents on Old Tovil Road for almost 30 years.

He said: “I was nervous. It was daunting. I have sung in clubs in Slovenia, but this was prime time TV on a Saturday night, you’re being beamed into people’s living rooms.

“I am glad I got my message across which is don’t sterotype me. I am an Indian guy with a turban but I am nothing what you expect.

“They said I wasn’t what they were expecting."

Kylie told him: “I like your look” before saying “I will certainly remember you.”

Mr Channa said although no judges turned round for him, during his 15 minute talk with them after performing, Ricky Wilson had said to Kylie and will.i.am that the two of them should have done.

The show was not the first time he has appeared on stage. The semi professional house music singer performs in clubs across Europe - although has never taken to the stage in Maidstone.

For full story see Friday's KM.