A student who escaped war-torn Congo with his family to launch a music career after studying at Carshalton College has been named one of the best students in south London.

Bolia Matundu, was awarded the Best Learner Award in competition between tens of thousands of students at colleges in Croydon, Kingston, Bromley, Richmond, Sutton and Merton.

He was presented with his award at the House of Lords, on May 18.

Mr Matundu, who graduated from Carshalton College in 2010 with a BTEC national diploma in music technology, was praised for his attendance and enthusiasm at the college, and his use of Additional Learner Support to improve his literacy skills.

He also volunteered as a class representative and gave his time to set up music equipment to support various college events, and used his talent as a graphic designer to design publicity for the college's music technology department.

He also launched a band, DRT, through the college that has signed by a record label, with their track Get Mad Now! chosen for a Specsavers nationwide advertising campaign.

He also got top grades on his course.