A SINGER songwriter from south east London is hoping his years of practice will help him to win a competition to launch his music career.

Former music teacher at Plumstead Manor School, Jamie France - who teaches guitar, drums and singing to youngsters – has entered the Samsung Launching People Project.

As well as help to launch his music career, the prize involves mentoring from Paloma Faith.

It would be a huge opportunity for Jamie who won praise from the Brit-nominated singer earlier in the year when he posted a cover version of her song Can’t Rely on You on Youtube.

Jamie, who is self-taught and has written more than 500 songs since he was 11, said: “I have dedicated hours and years of my life writing music. I am most comfortable when I am behind my guitar writing a song.

“As a writer, I listen to a wide range of music from various genres and styles and try to absorb it all like a sponge.

“The Samsung Launching People project is great because it gives creative people a platform to launch their ideas and grow as an artist, potentially taking their career to the next level. “There are a lot of raw, talented people out there that need to be heard and developed. That’s why a project like this is great.”

Check out Jamie’s Twitter @ParisJamie for more and details on how to vote