South Craven student Rachael Mount is set to hit the big time.

The 16-year-old A-level student, who lives on Burnroyd Avenue, Cross Hills, has been given a recording contract.

She was discovered by Colne-based record company Rockenbay after entering a number of local competitions.

Rachael entered a contest to record an album two years ago.

And she got into the top 20 in a competition for a boy/girl band last year.

She was then offered a solo contract.

The album of two of her own songs, eight covers and four pieces written for her will take a year to record.

It will be a combination of pop songs and pieces from musicals.

The record company also provides stage presentation lessons, vocal training and business techniques training.

The following year, Rachael will perform and promote at public venues.

She has to combine this with Theatre Studies and Sociology A-levels.

"I've got a very hectic schedule for the next year," she says.

But she has the chance of a career either in pop or West End musicals, according to the record company.

"They haven't chosen a direction for me yet," says Rachael.

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