A YORK singer has crooned his way into the semi-finals of a national karaoke competition.

Chris Hagyard, 19, a student at York Sixth Form College, who began singing when he was nine years old, started performing in karaoke nights three or four years ago. Chris was told about the Les Perry Roadshow National Karaoke Competition - one of the largest of its kind - by Craig Norrie, landlord of the Winning Post on Bishopthorpe Road.

He came first in the regional heat, held at the pub, and will now compete in the semi-final at the Cockpit Theatre in London on November 25, where he will perform his specialities - American Pie by Don McLean and Let Me Entertain You by Robbie Williams.

The overall winner will win a one-year recording contract.