A YOUNG singer has found that talent may be linked to a name as she discovers that she too has the voice of an angel.

Darlington schoolgirl Charlotte Churchman is following in the footsteps of teen opera singer Charlotte Church after winning a national competition on Sunday.

The eight-year-old wowed judges at the Festival4Stars talent contest with her performance of Eva Cassidy's Somewhere Over The Rainbow and picked up first prize in the under 12s karaoke section.

Charlotte, who attends Cockerton Primary School, said: "It was absolutely fantastic, the judges started to smile while I was singing and I really enjoyed it." Mum Yvonne Bartlett was with Charlotte when she took part in the national finals at in Glasgow.

The youngster started singing lessons when she was four and has performed on stage at school and for the Stockton Stage Society.

Mrs Bartlett, of Thorley Close, Branksome, said: "She sings classical music normally and so this was a real challenge. I'm so proud."

She said that her daughter's name coupled with her clear ability to sing has caused a few smiles among those who meet her.

Charlotte said she hopes she goes on to be a successful singer just like Charlotte Church.