A SINGER from Bournemouth has been named as a finalist in the UK Country Music Awards.

Helena Mace was shortlisted in the artist of the year category at the awards which were held in Derby earlier this month.

She was also nominated in the female artist and album of the year categories.

Helena released her second album, Wash Away the Years, 18 months ago and one of her singles made it into the iTunes country charts.

She said: “I have also received a nomination for best country singer songwriter (contemporary country pop music) for a Josie Music Award in Tennesee to be held at Dollywood. I receive a lot of airplay over in the USA.”