ONE of Warrington's most promising new music acts have made it through to the semi-finals of the Open Mic UK competition.

George Young, from Old Hall, and Greg Dixon, from Orford, have been impressing the judges in the biggest online search for British artists.

Every year more than 10,000 people enter – from solo singers and songwriters, to rappers and bands – and the duo have made it through all the heats, which have this year been online due to the coronavirus crisis.

There are now only around 30 bands and artists left in the talent search and George and Greg's qualifier to reach the final will be at the end of May.

They will be performing more of their original material which will be judged by people from all sections of the music industry including major record labels, national radio stations and BBC Introducing service.

Those who are sent through are acts that are either handpicked by the judges or selected via an audience vote.

George, a former Great Sankey High student, said: "The love and support we have received from friends, family and fans has been incredible – they are the ones who voted us through to the semi-final of a UK-wide competition.

"So just even being able to say that is absolutely incredible and I feel very very humble and happy to be in this position.

"We've been joking that we will now be addressing everyone we meet with the fact we are Open Mic UK semi-finalists.

"We're super happy and it took a day or two for it to really sink in."

The pair – who perform under George's name – met about three years ago at The Lounge (now Post House) in Springfield Street at an open mic night that former St Gregory's student Greg was hosting.

Greg used to be in the psychedelic rock band Psyblings, who performed at the Viola Beach tribute celebration at Parr Hall.

George added: "We come from two very different backgrounds. The Beatles, Otis Reading, Paolo Nutini are who influenced me growing up and beyond. But my music taste is incredibly vast from country to mariachi, much to Greg's annoyance.

"I want to thank Greg for being by my side through this. He is the real talent and probably doesn't get the credit I believe he deserves. He's a true talent and an even better friend so I'm really happy we are doing this together."