A singer from Sutton has been selected out of thousands of people to represent the UK in the 2020 Karaoke World Championships.

Gemma Dee, 32, has sung her way to the finals after entering the international competition during lockdown.

Karaoke World Championships (KWC) is the world's 'largest international unsigned singing contest'.

The competition searches for the best singers from up to 40 countries to be named the best 'unsigned singer in the world'.

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"It feels amazing to make the finals! I’m shocked and so proud too to have made it. It’s such an honour," says Gemma.

Gemma says she has "always wanted to be a singer" and hopes to one day make singing her full-time job.

She said: "I have been singing for over 15 years now!

"Two years ago, I entered the Open Mic UK singing competition and made it to the final and performed at the O2 which was amazing!

"Whilst I didn't win it, it was such an achievement to have made it to the finals alone and that is why I keep going.

"I entered the KWC competition because I want to make it in music.

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"I wasn’t expecting anything in fact, I entered not expecting to hear back and I’m shocked but so happy that I have made it this far. "

Unfortunately, due to Covid-19, this years competition will be held virtually online.

Gemma added: "It is sad to have to perform online because you cannot capture the true sound from what you get live.

"I will miss the support and atmosphere.

"Last year, the finals were in Japan so I have missed out on some amazing live experiences, but I’m still blessed that I have got this far."

To stay up to date with Gemma's competition journey, and to help her win, follow her Instagram page @gemma_dee01