A GIFTED Runcorn singer is through to the national final of one of Britain’s biggest competitions.

Allessandria Sivori will compete in the Open Mic UK final at the NEC Birmingham on Saturday, January 18.

She won the judge’s top score in the semi final and hopes 2014 could see her dream of becoming a star come true.

Allessandria, aged 21, from Weston Point, said: “It is simply amazing. Words can’t describe how I feel.

“When I heard I’d won the judge’s top score, I couldn’t speak.”

Former Wade Deacon pupil, Allessandria is just one step away from winning £5,000 to develop her music career.

She added: “I’m practising every single day. Everything has got to be spot on.

“I’m going to try something I’ve never done before, something totally new. It will be a cover song but with my own twist on it.

“I can’t wait. Winning would mean everything to me.”

Her parents, Mark and Amanda, family and friends will be watching her perform.

An Open Mic spokesman said: “We are searching for an act that not only has the live ability to impress an audience and industry judges, but an act that has the potential to become a professional recording artist.”

Tickets for the final, priced £20, are available from Allessandria on 07437 012840.

She will be performing at the the Mayor of Halton, Clr Margaret Ratcliffe’s civic event on January 10 in Runcorn Town Hall.

She will also be on stage at the Mayor’s Charity Ball in March and at Halton Business and Tourism Awards in April.

You can support Allessandria and follow her journey on facebook via com/allesandriamusic or twitter.com/allessandriaj