BRITs Critics' Choice: Jorja Smith wins 2018 prize after fending off competition from Stefflon Don and Mabel

20-year-old singer said it was 'such a special way to end the year'

Jorja Smith has been crowned BRITs Critics' Choice winner 2018 (Getty)

Jorja Smith has been announced as the winner of the BRITs Critics' Choice Award 2018.

The 20-year-old singer from Walsall - who went from a weekend job at Starbucks to featuring on work by the likes of Drake and Kali Uchis - was revealed as the winner are being shortlisted alongside Stefllon Don and Mabel.

The BRITs Critics' Choice Award says it recognises "the future stars of British recording talent" and has previously been handed to artists including Adele, Sam Smith, and Rag 'N' Bone Man.

Smith, who featured on Drake's record More Life this year and released her own EP in November 2016, said it was "such a special way to end the year".

"I cannot believe it, it's been an unforgettable 2017 during which I've fulfilled so many of my dreams and this is such a special way to end the year... and to be part of an all-female shortlist alongside Mabel and Stefflon Don, who've both had incredible 2017's, makes it even better!

"There's lots more to come in 2018 from all of us and I will do my best to make it another memorable year!"

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