STARDOM beckons for a teenage singer from Runcorn after he wowed judges on ITV's The Voice Kids.

Will Callan, 14, chose pop singer Pixie Lott to coach him after millions of viewers watched him perform Both Sides Now by Joni Mitchell on television last night.

The Heath School pupil is now thorough to the battles round which will be broadcast later this week.

Will's parents Jim and Carolyn were watching from the wings.

Jim, from Higher Runcorn, said: "Music is his whole life. He writes his own songs, plays the piano, records and produces and has been doing it for a long time.

"He acts, sings and dances."

Will has been attending the Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts (LIPA) since he was seven and has been chosen to play the lead role of Jesus in a forthcoming production of Jesus Christ Superstar.

The gifted performer has also appeared in countless shows at the Liverpool Empire and Epstein productions including the lead of Jean Valjean in Les Miserables.

Will has also trained at the So Talented Theatre School in Southport.

Jim said: "He has always had a thing for music. His musical style is very soulful. When you hear him sing you wouldn't think he was 14, he has quite an old voice.

"He has started writing musical theatre pieces himself."

More than 10,000 children across the country auditioned for the show.

Will is now in the top 36 which will be whittled down for a grand final on Saturday.

The winner will receive a £30,000 prize and family holiday to Disneyland Paris.

"The money is for a bursary for musical education," added Jim. "Whatever happens Will will continuing doing music.

"He is a kind, caring person who likes to help people.

"He has a good sense of humour and is a very loyal friend.

"Will will end up acting and singing or writing and performing."