THIRTEEN-year-old Niamh Mirfield, a pupil at South Craven School, has been named runner-up in a songwriting competition which attracted thousands of acts.

Her song Can't Stand This Anymore won through to the final of the Best of British Unsigned Song of 2016 competition - best song category - and was produced by Jamie Vee of Zene Records, Keighley.

Niamh’s father Scott Mirfield said: "This has been an amazing journey for Niamh. We are immensely proud of her and Niamh and we wish to thank everyone who has supported her along the way."

Niamh made her public singing debut at a Victorian musical produced at her primary school before moving on to perform in musicals at South Craven School in Cross Hills.

She said: “Singing is all about the experiences and magical moments throughout the journey. I also think it’s a great way to express your emotions."

During her campaign to win the "unsigned" title Niamh received messages of support from personalities including Jools Holland bassist Dave Swift, Coronation Street and Emmerdale actor Sam Kane and top blues singer Rebecca Downes.

She celebrated her success in style by being invited backstage to the Jools Holland concert in Harrogate by Dave Swift.

Niamh, of Glusburn, is currently writing a couple more songs with offers of assistance from Dave and Derek Nash, both members of the Jools Holland Rhythm & Blues Orchestra and currently touring.

The competition was launched in 2012 and the awards were hosted by Best of British Unsigned and included 16 categories, the public voting on line.

George Ponsford, sales and marketing director said: "Unsigned music in the UK is stronger than ever before, and these awards are not only great for recognising some of this country’s most promising artists, but also giving them the platform to share their music with the masses online.”