AN engineering student at Lakes College is well on his way to becoming the next John Lennon.

Alfie Hodgson, 16, who takes inspiration from The Beatles founder has been interested in music for most of his life, but only started playing the guitar and singing about two years ago.

The student who is completely self-taught, and started his music career taking part in open mic nights at the Yellow Earl in Whitehaven, has already had his music played on two radio stations – 6Towns Radio, which covers Stoke-on-Trent and Cando FM in Barrow-in-Furness.

Alfie, of Whitehaven, said: “I love The Beatles, music like that has always been my favourite.

“I’ve written around 30 of my own songs, probably enough for two albums. I have an old four track recorder at home so in lockdown I was just recording my songs straight onto tape.”

Alfie’s first single has been released on popular music streaming services, like Spotify. He recorded the song at the Music Farm in Egremont.

During the summer, the teenager played his first live gig at the LEL Arena in Whitehaven to a crowd of more than 100 people, which has led to him applying to play at Cumbrian festivals next year – including Kendal Calling and EskFest, as well as being on the line-up to play a gig at the HMV store in Workington in the New Year.

When Alfie isn’t performing, he is studying Level 2 Engineering at Lakes College. Engineering tutor, John Crook, said Alfie has made “a great transition from school to college” and is a “bubbly and enthusiastic” character to have in class.

“Alfie came and told us about his musical talents a few weeks ago, as an engineering team we are always keen to help, support and promote students in everything that they do.

“We are very proud of him,” Mr Crook added.

Alfie’s set list includes covers alongside his own music. Songs from artists like Jake Bugg are a crowd favourite, with his next performance taking place at Netherhall Old Boys in Maryport on December 4.

He said: “Hopefully I’ll keep growing in the music world over the next few years.

“I need to thank my Mam and Dad really, if they weren’t there to take me to my gigs I wouldn’t be where I am.”

Alfie’s single is out now and available for download. Search for Alfie Hodgson on YouTube to listen.