There were celebrations across Sussex last night as local lad Tom Odell was crowned number one in the charts.

The 22-year-old from Chichester has shot to fame this year after winning the Brit Critic’s Choice Award in February.

His songs Hold Me and Another Love have graced radio stations around the world ever since the artist made his Glastonbury debut at the weekend.

There were also celebrations in Brighton and Hove where he attended the Brighton Institute of Modern Music.

Former tutor and friend, Ian Sillett, said: “I’m going to be celebrating with an expensive bottle of Sauvignon Blanc. I’m so pleased for him.

“You could see he was going to be something special early on. He is a great piano player and fantastic songwriter.

“On top of that he is a character and a lovely young man. I couldn’t be happier.

“I sent hima message wishing him good luck. He’s a busy boy nowadays but we stay in touch.”

The head of the songwriting department added that his former pupil’s success would also open the door to others – with industry officials now regularly visiting their concerts.

He said: “It’s obviously great for Tom but also for our other students.”