WEST END star Diana Vickers has been nominated for a prestigious theatre award following her appearance in musical Little Voice.
The X-Factor singer, from Burnley Road, in Huncoat, has been nominated for the What’s On Stage Awards withcoveted actors Lenny Henry and Patina Miller.
It is early days in Diana’s acting career after she was picked by producer Nica Burns for the starring role of Little Voice, first played by Lancashire actress Jane Horrocks.
But Diana’s mum Ann says she was "thrilled" to be considered for the title of Dewynters London Newcomer of the Year.
She told the Observer: "She’s absolutely thrilled to pieces to be even nominated for the award.
"Even if she doesn’t get it, what an achievement it’s been for her to just get into theatre – I’m so proud of her."
Diana’s step to fame began as thesinger who was tipped to win the X-Factor before she was beaten to the top behind fellow contestants Alexandra Burke, JLS and Eoghan Quigg.
The 18-year-old, who took on the remake of the award-winning West End show in October, will showcase her last performance at the end of the month.
She will then pursue her musical career with a UK tour which kicks off in Bristol on March 20, and ends at the King George’s Hall in Blackburn on March 27.
As the Observer went to press, Diana was leading in the London Newcomer category with a majority of 33 per cent of the votes.
Ann said: "She’s really enjoyed doing theatre. If she’s lucky enough to be asked to do theatre again, she’d love to.
"She has learned a lot from the cast who are lovely and are all experienced actors.
"Whatever happens, I will be proud of her."
Theatre goers can vote for Diana by logging onto: http://awards.whatsonstage.com.
