A TEENAGE singer from Wickford who appeared in the BBC's Tourettes: Let Me Entertain You has qualified for the regional stages of a national talent competition.
Emily Carter, 16, of Woodham Road, has qualified for the regional stage of Teen Star, a competition which showcases young singers and rappers.
The regional final will take place at the Palace Theatre in Southend on March 17 and, if she progresses, she will compete in the national final at the O2 arena in London.
The Brentwood School pupil said: "I wasn't expecting to get through, as I entered the competition for the experience.
"The girl performing next to me was amazing and although I thought I did well, the standard was so high that I wasn't sure if the judges would select me.
"I really enjoyed the experience though and it was great to be involved.
"I have done other competitions and gigs, like Essex Factor, and I'm really enjoying taking part in singing competitively."
Thousands of hopefuls entered the competition nationwide and hundreds took part in auditions in a bid to make the regional finals.
The latter stages of the competition will provide acts with the opportunity to impress guests from record labels, agencies and the entertainment industry.
Miss Carter, who has Tourette's Syndrome, appeared on the BBC Three programme last year, in which she and other young people with the condition practised and performed live music.
Reflecting on her TV experience, she said: "It was amazing, the best experience ever and because of it I'm more confident. I love performing, it helps my Tourette's and it's a relaxing way to express myself.
"I would say my music taste is eclectic, I like a bit of everything: Paloma Faith, The Killers and Paramore.
"I'm also writing my own music at the moment and learning to play the piano but I haven't performed any of my own stuff yet.
"My tactic when I go on stage is just to be me and do my best.
"I have a unique style which the judges liked at the auditions to Teen Star."
