TEENAGE singing sensation Faye Nesbitt is on her way to student stardom after being shortlisted in a national competition.

After her talent was spotted by a singing teacher when she was in the school choir, the 17-year-old is one of the youngest finalists in this year's National Student Music Awards. The competition aims to showcase new student talent to the music industry.

The best student artist will be presented with recording time at the BBC's Maida Vale studio, with production and mastering at the legendary Abbey Road Studios and distribution through the American Blood record label. The winner will also receive Lee Cooper products and an appearance on music show CD:UK on ITV1.

Faye, who is studying Performing Arts at Middlesbrough College, has her father Martin and brother Neil to thank for her recent fame.

Teesside University student Neil, 21, spotted a poster for the competition in the corridors of the university and her father entered her into the awards.

Faye said: "It all happened pretty quickly and the next thing I knew, I had a call telling me I was into the last 30 out of 500.

"I couldn't believe it. There are so many brilliant bands in the final 30 and I'm one of the youngest.

"I can't wait for the final, I'm just relying on the people of the North-East to vote for me."

The part-time worker, from Saltburn, is now rallying for votes from her local towns and villages.

The final takes place in London on May 11. It will feature the three artists who receive the most votes, one of whom will be voted best student artist.

Faye has been singing competitively for seven years and last summer returned from the Edinburgh Fringe Festival with excellent reviews and an award for her outstanding contribution.

Her voice can be heard on the website at www.nsma.com where people can also vote.