AN award-winning young guitarist from Kidderminster who has rubbed shoulders with former Beatles producer, Sir George Martin, is set to rock his home town next week.

Rob Hayes was crowned Contemporary Popular Music Student of the Year by the world famous producer this time last year, on behalf of Access to Music, and is playing at the Swan pub in Vicar Street on Wednesday.

The talented 20-year-old shook hands with Sir George for a second time when he received Access to Music's Saturday Academy Award at a glittering annual awards ceremony earlier this month.

The award, which is sponsored by Rockschool, recognises "outstanding personal development, motivation, self-management and achievement during the Saturday academy this year and last".

Talented Rob, who is studying to be a session musician on Access To Music's Artist Development Programme in London, cites Brian May, Whitesnake and Led Zeppelin as his heroes.

He said he was shocked to have received his latest accolade.

"I was told I'd be getting a surprise but I didn't expect this," he said.

"I love studying on ADP, it's brilliant."

He added: "It's been a big life change moving to London, it's very different from Kidderminster, but I'm loving it as I'm learning so much."

Saturday Academy programme leader, Tim Smart, described Rob as "highly talented and highly motivated with 100 per cent dedication to his instrument".

He added: "His dedication and hard work to the Saturday academy led to him being offered a place on the ADP course, where this work is being continued. I wish him all the best for his future career."

Next week's gig at The Swan starts at 8.30pm.