NATHANAEL Parker won the Best of Swindon Talent Competition during the St George's Day celebrations in the town centre.

The 25-year-old from Cheney Manor performed live on the Wharf Green stage front of a large crowd and a panel of judges in the show's final.

Nathanael said: "I was absolutely terrified before I went on stage, I get awful nerves, but once I was up there I took a deep breath and I was OK.

"All the other finalists were so supportive and lovely, which helped put me at ease.

"I never thought I'd get to the final, let alone win, I was shocked.

"I tried to get in the zone and not think too much about who was watching but it's hard when there's judges making notes right in front of you.

"I gave it my all and I couldn't believe it when they said I'd won.

"There was so much talent on that stage, it was lovely to be recognised."

Nathanael decided to sing Rise Like A Phoenix, the Eurovision-winning song originally performed by Conchita Wurst.

He added: "It's my favourite song to sing.

"From the first time I heard it, I was completely obsessed with it so this seemed like the right time to perform it.

"Brian and Jason have helped with my music and my singing, they were in the audience, having them come to watch me was amazing.

"I normally sing with them as part of a group of five, this was the biggest thing I'd done on my own and I'm really pleased that I did it."

Amelie Jadhav from Wanborough came second in the talent show and Meghan-Leigh Williams from Oakhurst came third.

Nathanael will be back on-stage for the Christmas lights switch-on later this year.