A NEWPORT teenager is to perform in front of the Queen at the presentation of new colours ceremony at the Millennium Stadium on June 11.

Kieran Marsh, 14, from Maesglas, is a contestant in the Welsh Factor talent competition and has been given the once in a lifetime opportunity as part of the contest.

The Royal Welsh will be inspected by the Queen, who is Colonel in Chief of The Royal Welsh, before being presented with their new regimental flags.

Kieran, who previously performed at the NEC Birmingham in the Teenstar competition, has been playing guitar for four years.

He lists Ed Sheeran as his biggest inspiration and hopes to one day study performing arts and music at university.

Speaking about the performance, Kieran said: “I’m really excited and can’t wait. It’s going to be amazing.

“Playing in front of the Queen makes me want to step it up a gear and give my best performance. On the day, my stomach will be turning but it’s a real honour to play in front of her.

“I’ll be playing some of my own stuff and it’s great that the hard work is paying off. You only get back what you put in.”

Kieran’s mother, Cheryl Marsh, 42, added: “I’m really proud of him.

“He’s got dreams and goals and has worked really hard to try and reach them.”

Kieran is also set to release his first EP at Cwmbran Shopping Centre on May 30. For more information visit www.kieranmarsh.com.