Singing his way to the top

A songwriter dubbed ‘Retford’s Bob Marley’ has emerged triumphant at a competition in Lincoln.
Ross Spencer being handed his prizesRoss Spencer being handed his prizes
Ross Spencer being handed his prizes

Ross Spencer wowed the judges at The Jolly Brewer Singer/Songwriter competition and finished in top spot.

The performer was one of three from the Retford area to compete in the final at the popular Lincoln pub.

The other two finalists were Nat Morven and Harley Howarth.

Ross, who describes his style as relaxed folk, got down to the final 10 after performing in the selection heats.

At the final Ross, dubbed Retford’s Bob Marley because of his dreadlocks, performed three songs for the judges who marked them and gave feedback.

The 38-year-old, who has lived in Retford for seven years, said a local songwriting group, the Reverb Project, has helped him on his way to success.

Ross, who regularly plays at local open mic sessions and gigs, said: “In the last few years local song writers have been growing in number and a significant number have been getting together under the umbrella of the Reverb Project. It is hosted by Emma Thorpe, daughter of the late local Blues legend Kevin Thorpe, at his legacy the Swanyard studios off Carolgate, and we meet once a week to help each other hone our skills and record the results.”

Ross was captured performing to glory by KD Photo Studio in Lincoln.