A HAMPSHIRE teenage drummer has been tipped for professional success after winning a prestigious drumming competition.

Sam Swift, 16, from Stubbington, was crowned the winner of #Futurebeat 2017, one of the UK’s most prestigious drumming competitions across the country for under 18s.

The competition, organised by instrument manufacturer Yamaha, offers exposure and unique performance opportunities for young drummers.

Sam, a drummer for the last eight years, was crowned the winner after performing solo, accompanying a track and in a three-piece live band.

He performed with Yamaha artists Andy Jones, who has worked with Van Morrison, Cliff Richard and James Ingram, on guitar and bassist Phil Laughlin, who has supported Rick Wakeman, at the grand final which was hosted at Yamaha’s UK headquarters in Milton Keynes.

The teenager was judged and coached by Steve White, who has worked with Paul Wellar and The Who, Andrew Small, who has worked with Kylie Minogue and Massive Attack, and Graveltones drummer Mikey Sorbello.

He was awarded a top-of-the-range drum kit as his prize.

Judge Steve White praised his efforts.

Steve said: “The standard has been quite incredible and what we have seen in Sam is an extremely talented young drummer.

"I am pretty much convinced he will if he chooses, find a career in music if that’s what he’s prepared to put his efforts into.”

Mikey Sorbello added: “As a young musician it is so important to have something to strive for, it’s what creates great musicians.

"#Futurebeat is not only an investment in the future of drummers like Sam, but it was an inspiring day for all of us.”

After winning the competition, Sam said: “Thank you so much to Yamaha for organising #Futurebeat 2017 and the judges for sharing their knowledge with me.

“It has been an incredible experience playing in front of the professionals and alongside the other competitors.

“Drumming will always be a major part of my life.

"This competition has encouraged me further to pursue playing the drums as a career.”

For winning, Sam picked up his prize of a newly released Yamaha tour custom drum kit worth more than £2,000.