SOUTHALL'S very own Mandeep Singh Khalsa has been picked to represent the UK at this year's international Mr Singh contest.

The 23-year-old, who lives in Old Southall, will be flying out to Amritsar, India, later this month to take part in the grand final.

He said: "I was pretty shocked when I found out but once it sunk in I realised I was pretty happy to be one of the winners. My family were shocked as well."

Mr Khalsa, who works as a finance analyst, said he was put forward for the contest by a charity he works with named Khalsa Aid.

Mr Singh is a contest intended to find young Sikh males who can be positive role models and give them a helping hand towards making a career in entertainment.

It is also designed to help encourage awareness and respect for Sikh culture. Local heats included marks awarded for general ability, dress sence, stage walk and personality.

The Mr Singh final takes place on November 28.