AN ASPIRING singer from Blackwood has signed a contract with a London-based record label.

Gareth Lucas, 30, has landed a deal that will see him record two singles, shoot a music video and promote his first UK single with label IndiGospel. He then hopes to record a full 12-track album.

The Fleur-De-Lys singer said: “Ever since I was a young boy I’ve always known that I wanted to be a singer. I can’t wait to get in to the studio and write and record my first single, I have been waiting for this opportunity for such a long time and I will definitely be giving it 100 per cent.

“My partner, family and friends have been a huge support and have always encouraged me to follow my dreams and to never give up. I’ve had a no from lots of different people over the years, which does sometimes throw you off track, but you just have to pick yourself up, dust yourself off and keep telling yourself that you can do it.”

Gareth says his faith has been a huge influence on his life and attends Elim Baptist Church in Pontllanfraith, where he also volunteers at their night shelter during the winter period.

He added: “Helping at the night shelter really opened my eyes to the need that we have within the local community. I certainly didn’t realise how many homeless people there actually is within Caerphilly and it’s great that we are able to provide them with a hot meal and also a warm bed for the night.”

He added: “I’m feeling very blessed at the moment and in the words of D:ream’s classic, things can only get better, so let’s hope that’s true.”

You can hear some of his work on YouTube by subscribing to Gareth Lucas.