A FORMER bus controller hoping to turn his dream of becoming an iconic tribute performer into a reality is set to star in a BBC One programme.

Dave Black, 52, from Colchester, had wanted to be an entertainer since the age of ten, but started to really take his passion seriously after being made redundant.

Determined to become a full-time tribute act, the former Arriva employee ploughed his pay-off money into buying Elvis Presley costumes and singing lessons.

READ MORE: Colchester bus driver becomes full-time Elvis Presley tribute act

He said: "I had to have a lot of self-belief and believe that, if I lay out this money, I'm going to be able to get it back. I'm living my dream and I will carry on doing that."

His efforts subsequently caught the eyes of producers working on We Are England; an award-winning current affairs show which covers different topics in each episode.

After agreeing to take part in the series, driven Mr Black, of Straight Road, was followed by camera crews as he attempted to secure a lucrative contract.

He even performed at a national talent showcase in front of 200 agents and bookers for holiday parks in a bid to land the gig off a lifetime.

To watch Dave Black’s We Are England episode tune into BBC on at 8pm this evening or visit the iPlayer after it has been broadcast.