YOUNG jazz sensation Jamie Cullum was honoured with the Rising Star Award at this year's BBC Jazz Awards.

The 23-year-old, who grew up in Hullavington, was presented with the prize by Michael Parkinson at a special ceremony held at the Queen Elizabeth Hall in London on Tuesday night.

The youngster, who now lives in London, shot to fame early this year when Universal shelled out £1 million for his talent in a record-breaking deal for a British jazz Musician.

Jamie said the award was a great honour as it recognised his ability as a musician.

He said: "This means a lot and feels fantastic. This is about recognition for me as a musician a not about the press I attract in the newspapers for the big deal I have signed. It is all the more special considering the people who have won it over the years."

Despite his rapid rise to fame Jamie, who attended Grittleton House School as a boy, had to pull out of the Marlborough Jazz Festival this month because his record label would not allow him to play.

His latest album entitled 20 Something is due for release on October 23.