A TEACHER who wowed the Britain’s Got Talent judges with his showstopping voice has finished third in the competition.

Tom Ball, a secondary school teacher from Burgess Hill, was pipped to first place by comedian Axel Blake during last night’s grand finale.

The 24-year-old had the judges on their feet after he delivered a powerful rendition of I (Who Have Nothing) by Tom Jones.

Judge Amanda Holden described the performance by the West Sussex teacher as “unbelievable” and “unforgettable”.

While music mogul Simon Cowell said Tom’s performance exceeded his expectations.

He said: "You know what Tom, so far you've been really, really, really good and I thought coming into the final what a fantastic line-up we've got tonight. I am really happy. And I really like everyone.

"Then I was thinking it's a cute story isn't it - a teacher with a good voice. Tonight, you were a teacher with an amazing voice.

“Whether you like that kind of music doesn't matter. Talent is talent and I am now seeing your name which is West End, leading part.

“You're interesting, you're talented, you're a nice person - I mean you are amazing."

Ventriloquist Jamie Leahey and his puppet Chuck the chicken came in second.

Funny man Axel said “words can’t even explain” his emotions after being crowned the winner.

The 33-year-old property maintenance manager from west London, who was Simon Cowell’s golden buzzer choice, has scooped the £250,000 prize, as well as a spot on the bill at the Royal Variety Performance.

Speaking following his win, Blake said: “Words can’t even explain. I am shaking. Thank you everyone for voting for me. It means the world to me.”

The comedian delivered another witty comedy routine during the talent competition’s final, including joking that he had heard a member of the public mistaking him for the rapper Stormzy, but with added weight.

He also joked about how the intensity of cyclists in London made him have to give up the sport, but that he still keeps up his dance moves, which he demonstrated on stage.

Cowell said that he was emotional for Blake following the routine, adding: “I really believe that we have discovered a star.”