Witham contestant on The Voice chooses Olly Murs as mentor

Marc Halls, 35, from Witham, made it through to the next round of the ITV singing competition with his rendition of Driver's License by Olivia Rodrigo.

Marc got two turns from the mentors with both Tom Jones and Olly Murs pressing their buttons.

The musician described coming on The Voice as “definitely challenging” as he spoke ahead of his performance.

Speaking after turning, Olly, who is also from Witham, said: “It was beautiful. The crowd were going [crazy].”

Marc Halls from Witham made it through to the next round on The Voice. Picture: ITV (Image: ITV)

Fellow judge Sir Tom said: “You have a really pure voice. You sound like you mean every word and you read into the lyrics and you portray them wonderfully.”

Marc, who was accompanied by members of his band Three Part Hill, also performed a short three-part harmony for the judges.

Olly told Marc he “really wanted” to work with him and was delighted when he was picked.

Marc said: "You are both brilliant and what you do and to have two of you think it is good enough for a turn is awesome.

"I think in this case I will go with Olly, we have common ground and that Witham connection."

Sharing his success on his Facebook page Marc said: “Beyond overwhelmed right now. Thanks Olly Murs for having me.

Olly Murs was chosen by Witham's Marc Halls. Picture: ITV (Image: ITV)

“Being given the opportunity to perform on tv once was amazing, now I get to do it again! Can't wait to get working on the next performance.

“All of your messages of support and encouragement have been so so lovely. Thank you.”

Marc is not the first contestant from Essex to have a go at the competition.

In the past Sarah Tucker, from Leigh, Leanne Jarvis from Southchurch and Hadleigh Ford from Silver End have all taken to the stage.