A Hitchin musician has won a prestigious music prize.

James Bay, former pupil of Hitchin Boys’ School, took home the BRITs Critics Choice award last night.

The 24-year-old beat fellow newcomers George The Poet and Years and Years to win the award.

The winner is chosen by industry experts, and is only open to artists due to release their debut album next year.

James took to Twitter to express his gratitude, saying: “SPEECHLESS. Never thought I’d actually be getting a Brit Award myself. Thank you all for your support!”