SINGING sensation Hollie Steel is hoping she’ll be able to beat off competition from George Michael and Robbie Williams as she battles to become Christmas number one.

The 11-year-old from Huncoat first stole the hearts of the nation when she appeared on Britain’s Got Talent in the spring, especially when she shed tears when she forgot the words to her song.

Now Hollie is getting ready for the release of her debut single ‘Where Are You Christmas’ – which has been co-written by world-famous diva Mariah Carey.

Mum Nina said the song will be available for download and in the shops on 7 December.

"It is a song which was co-written by Mariah Carey and the record company asked her for her permission to use it. It has never been recorded before but appeared on the film The Grinch.

"It is a little bit like Walking in the Air and it starts off really sweet and ends up almost opera-like."

She added: "Hollie has had a really good time doing it all. She would love to get into the top 10 but we don’t know if that will happen or not.

"But at just two pounds, it is a lovely present for Christmas and I hope that Accrington people get behind her and dip into their pockets. It would be her dream come true."

But Hollie faces stiff competition with international stars such as George Michael, Robbie Williams and Mary J Blige releasing songs on the same date – as well as this year’s offering by the X-Factor winner that traditionally occupies top slot at Christmas.

Hollie hopes to follow up her debut single launch with the release of her first album in the New Year, which she has been recording in Nelson.

"We have already recorded 12 songs," Nina said.

"She has loved doing it all and it’s a mix of musical theatre, Disney and opera songs. It is a bit different so all the songs do not sound the same."

Hollie famously broke down in tears during Britain’s Got Talent’s live semi-final show but still made it through after boss Simon Cowell gave her a second chance.

But more than 400 views complained to TV regulator Ofcom after Hollie’s emotional appearance.

This week the watchdog cleared the show of breaching broadcasting rules after saying it was a talent show, and disappointment to all but the winning contestant was ‘inevitable’.

Nina has backed the decision and has nothing but praise for the way her daughter was treated by Britain’s Got Talent.

She said: "I think they treated her the best they could. Hollie had a really good time doing Britain’s Got Talent and everything they did they did to help her."