A YEAR after he was plucked from relative obscurity to play on BBC radio, a busker from Milford Haven has just released his second album.

Last year, Spanish guitarist Sam Hardy was spotted on the streets of London by TV and radio presenter Gaby Roslin, who invited him to play on her BBC radio show.

Buoyed by her support, Sam decided to release his first solo album Reflection, and has just released his follow-up, Destenido.

Inspired by his time in Andalusia, Spain, where Sam was able to study the intricate flamenco guitar style of the locals, the album features 10 original songs.

Sam says the album title comes from the story of a matador in Jerez who couldn't kill a bull, and so the crowd cried for mercy to let the bull live.

The 30-year-old said this relates to his journey of playing guitar on the streets in winter, and how the crowds would stop to watch, applaud and donate money to support his cause.

Since releasing the album on March 29, Sam has again played Gaby Roslin’s show, and has received a warm response from his fans on social media.

He has been picked to apply for Guitar Star on Sky Arts TV, and says he is also in talks with various TV producers.

Despite setbacks along the way - Sam made the bold decision to quit his job and pursue music full-time – he says his success is down to hard work, and never giving up on his dream.

“A lot of people think I’m lucky, but to get to where I am now wasn't easy and not many people saw the struggle just because I always appeared to be positive and optimistic,” he said.

“I love music and playing to other people makes me feel complete. I feel blessed that I have been given the opportunity to make people's life more fulfilled with my music.

“The best comment I ever received about my music was from a blind man who sat and listened for over an hour before coming up to me and saying ‘For the last hour you gave me sight’.

“I was truly blown away by that person’s comment."

He added: "I would like to thank everyone who continues to support me back in Pembrokeshire, it is truly overwhelming.

"I hope to continue until I reach the top and put Milford Haven on the map.

For more information, visit www.samhardymusic.com.