A NEYLAND mum with dreams of a career in music is celebrating her first competition win.

Sophie Maria Adams, from Neyland, was crowned winner of the over-21 category at last month's Welsh Factor final in Llanelli.

Her performance of Simon and Garfunkel classic Bridge Over Troubled Water captured the attentions of judges and audience alike.

Sophie, who also writes her own songs, said the experience was "amazing", and has resulted in her being approached to perform at other events.

"The talent there was so high," she said.

"I entered the competition mainly for the experience to build up confidence and stage presence, I like to push myself and take myself out of my comfort zones.

"This was the first time I entered and the first time I’ve ever won anything with singing."

After coming off stage, Sophie was congratulated by her "biggest fan" - her five-year-old daughter.

"She was so excited to come along and support me at the final, I heard her cheers above everyone," she said.

"The Welsh Factor is a great competition and the support I received during and after was amazing.

"I’m now hoping to progress with my songwriting so I can release some fresh original tracks."

In 2016, Sophie got through to the boot camp stages of the X Factor, and last year provided guest vocals on rapper Project's single Midnight Rush.

Other local acts to reach the final were former Mercury Talent Show finalist Faith Foster, who sang a soul-stirring rendition of Mama Knows Best, and Kelly Williams School of Dance from Pembroke, whose acts "brought an energetic routine to the stage that the audience adored".