SINGER turned actress Diana Vickers is to star in a new psychological thriller.

The former Westholme pupil, who shot to fame when she made it to the semi-final of The X Factor in 2008, has started filming on Green Screen Productions’ Awaiting.

Diana, from Huncoat, has recently embarked on a movie career after starring in the West End in Little Voice, and has been cast alongside Tony Curran, who has appeared in Hollywood blockbusters such as Gladiator and Underworld: Evolution.

The film has been described by its makers as a journey of introspection into the depths of human nature and the capabilities of twisted minds.

Diana said: “It is such an exciting experience filming my first UK feature film.

“I was immediately drawn to the script, as I am a real fan of psychological thrillers.

“I have been doing a lot of comedy recently and this is a great change and a great opportunity to get my teeth into.”

The plot follows Morris, played by Curran, a recluse with psychotic tendencies, whose life changes when his innocent daughter, played by Diana, rescues one of his victims and befriends him.

Jake, played by Rupert Hill, an ordinary businessman, soon realises that he is stranded, and his presence in the house gradually reveals unexpected and dark mysteries from the past.

Director Mark Murphy’s work includes The Crypt, Casanova's Last Stand and Movie Kingdoms, said: "It was the largest outdoor arts event ever to be staged in Northern Ireland.

He said: “I am incredibly excited to bring Awaiting to fruition.

“We have a strong script, a blisteringly talented cast, and a crew at the top of their game. I have no doubt we are going to deliver a film that will appeal to cinema-goers globally.”