A YOUNGSTER from the region made a lasting impression with judges when he finished as a runner-up in a national competition.

Gavin Cochrane, 12, of Hartlepool, wowed judges in Haribo's search for the UK's Best Young Impressionists, in London, with his interpretations of Cilla Black, Ali G and Jonny Vegas.

Gavin was named second runner-up in the up to 12-year-old category and won a day out at a UK theme park of his choice, and a year's supply of Haribo sweets.

The youngster was one of 30 from throughout the country who made it to the final.

They performed in front of a celebrity line-up of judges, including children's television presenter Ortis and Jamie Rickers, from GMTV.

Launched in April, youngsters were asked to leave one-minute impersonations of celebrities on a hotline. The best went on to the regional heats, then national contest.

Christian Freund, from Haribo, said: "We were absolutely amazed by the level of talent, so Gavin has done incredibly well to be named as second runner-up."