A YEAR ago he had never been on television in his life. But last year’s Britain’s Got Talent semi-finalist Charlie Wernham is living proof a heck of a lot can happen in a year.

As the new series of the popular ITV talent show gets under way, Charlie, 14, from Billericay, says he will be gladly watching as hundreds of hopefuls battle it out to win the chance to perform in front of the Queen.

Charlie, of Stansted Close, knows just how they feel. A year ago he narrowly missed out on a place in the final of the show, after wowing the nation with his cheeky stand-up comedy routine.

Charlie, whose short, sharp gags made even icy-faced judge Simon Cowell chuckle, said: “This year has gone so fast. So much has happened and a lot of it is down to appearing on Britain’s Got Talent.

“Although I didn’t win, the show really opened doors for me. It was an unforgettable experience.”

But Charlie won’t be spending too much time pining in front of the TV screen.

“I’ve got so much on at the moment,” he said. “I’m out and about all the time either auditioning or filming.”

The outgoing teen has also won a place studying at the acclaimed Slyvia Young Theatre School at the weekends.

The school, in London, is famous for producing theatre and musical stars, including Amy Winehouse, Emma Bunton and Basildon-born Denise Van Outen.

Charlie, who is in Year 9 at the Billericay School, has also appeared on an episode of the popular E4 comedy, the Inbetweeners.

The youngster had a part playing “hard kid” Danny Moore in the Bafta-nominated show, which is about a group of teenage friends struggling through sixth form.

He has also just finished filming a comedy sketch show for E4, called School of Comedy.

“It’s great. It’s a bit like Catherine Tate, but with youngsters pretending to be adults,” added Charlie.

“I had a fantastic time filming it and met some great friends on the set.

“I’m not sure exactly when the programme will be coming out, but it will be later in the year.”

On Britain’s Got Talent, Charlie became friends with eventual winner, breakdance wonderkid George Sampson, 15, and opera singer Faryl Smith, 12. Both who have gone on to become household names.

“I go to see George a lot. He’s a good friend. The other day I went up to visit him in London and loads of girls were waiting outside his flat. They were screaming at him to come down. It was manic!

“I also text Faryl a lot and our mums and dads are all close friends.”

Charlie was impressed with the first batch of performers who appeared on last Saturday’s Britain’s Got Talent, which was the first in the new series.

“I thought the dance act Flawless were brilliant. They must have a big chance at winning,” he said.

As for Charlie, he now has his sights firmly set on becoming a successful actor.

He said: “Acting is definitely a road I’d like to go down now.

“I still like to do my stand-up, but my dream role would be a part on EastEnders – at least I wouldn’t have to fake the accent!”