Talented teenager Amber Foxley hopes to follow in the footsteps of heroes Adele, Ellie Goulding and Paloma Faith as she bids to become Britain's next singing sensation.

The 13-year-old Canterbury Academy pupil will take to the stage tomorrow in the under- 16s regional final at the Open Mic UK competition in Brighton.

If Amber progresses, she is line to perform at the O2 Arena for the grand final and scoop a £5,000 cash prize to boost her music career.

Mum Lucy, of St Luke’s Close, Whitstable, said: “Amber has been singing ever since she opened her mouth to make a noise.

“I know I’m her mum but she has got a beautiful singing voice, it sends shivers down my spine. The challenge is to get her to practise!

“We are all incredibly proud of Amber. On Saturday her family and friends will be cheering her on.”

Amber began singing lessons when she was nine and is currently working towards her grade four. She has previously performed at local competitions including Whitstable’s Got Talent, staged at Whitstable Castle.

Thousands have entered Open Mic UK across three age categories including singers, rappers and songwriters in the hope of realising their musical dreams.

The competition was set up by talent spotters Future Music, who discovered X Factor graduates Jahmene Douglas and Lucy Spraggan.

Head of Future Music Chris Grayston said: “Every year that we hold this competition the bar is raised and the quality gets higher and higher.

“We’re really looking forward to experiencing the raw talent from across the country.

“For promising singers, song-writers, rappers and vocalists, Open Mic UK provides a real opportunity to open the door to a music career by showcasing their talent to music industry professionals and audiences across the country.”

For more information on the competition visit www.openmicuk.co.uk