A YOUNG singer-songwriter is to perform at London’s O2 arena.

Mark Race will compete in the grand finals of the Teen Star 2013 talent contest in July, after winning through the area finals for the North-East and Scotland, held in Newcastle earlier this month.

The 17-year-old said: “I’m pretty excited. Not everyone can say they’ve had the chance to perform at the O2.

“I’m really looking forward to it.”

Mark, a Durham School student from Neville’s Cross, Durham City, will sing and play the guitar, accompanied by his guitar teacher, Richard Woods.

Teen Star 2013 attracted more than 10,000 entries. Mark will be up against around 20 finalists in the 16-19 age category.

He said he has always enjoyed singing and only wants to be a singer. He started playing the guitar about four years ago and writing his own songs two years ago.