A TALENTED schoolgirl is to feature on national radio today as part of a live feature on Newton Aycliffe.

Radio Five Live will broadcast from the town's leisure centre between 4pm and 7pm.

Biba Christie, 14, is to get a spot on the show. The singer-songwriter, who attends Woodham Community Technology College, beat more than 1,000 hopefuls to win the county TalentSTAR contest.

The programme, presented by Shelagh Fogarty, is one of a series on new towns.

Controversial plans for an eco-village on the edge of town will be highlighted during the broadcast.

A planning application for the housing estate was rejected last week after protests from councillors and residents.

The £25m town centre extension, which includes a new Tesco supermarket, will also be featured.