A budding classical guitarist from Putney has won a place at a prestigious London music school.

Harold Gordon Smith, from Costello Avenue, will begin studying for a music degree at Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music and Dance later this year.

The talented 19-year-old is currently completing a music foundation programme at DLD College in Marleybone, central London.

The self-taught teen only picked up the guitar six years ago, but has quickly blossomed into a promising classical artist.

He cites Brazilian composer Heitor Villa-Lobos and Spanish guitarist Fernando Sor as particular inspirations - but says English classical musician Julian Bream is his all time favourite for his use of tone colours.

Harold said: “ The first year of self-teaching was really tough; all I would do after school was go home and practice playing the guitar.

"But after you’re used to the instrument it’s just about perfecting your technique - being at DLD is amazing as it has helped me improve significantly, and the teachers have all been really supportive.

”Studying at Trinity Laban will be an amazing experience as the teaching staff are so talented and are very driven to improve you as a musician.

"While I’m there I really want to get the most out of this fantastic opportunity and focus on composition.”

DLD College principal Rachel Borland, said: “This is fantastic news for Harold, he’s worked so hard to get a place at Trinity Laban and I would like to say congratulations from all at DLD College London as we are all very proud of him."