A WANNABE West End star is set to get her five minutes of fame when she makes her first lead TV appearance on ITV's 'Heartbeat.'

Rachel Yates, 17, of Slaidburn Avenue, Rawtenstall, is hoping this is the push she'll need to be recognised and help her on her way to stardom.

A pupil at Debra McLaren School of Dancing in Rawtenstall, Rachel has been performing since her early school years.

A sixth form pupil at Haslingden High School, she has performed in professional shows in the past and hopes to win a leading role on a top soap.

When she was 11 years old she earned herself a place in Oliver at the Manchester Opera House and a year later won a major part in Tess of the D'Urbervilles at Manchester's Palace Theatre, playing Tess's sister Liza-Lu.

She had a singing role in the musical which featured former Hi De Hi star and comedian Paul Shane.

Since then, she has competed in many music competitions and festivals, had a role in Joseph at Bradford's Alhambra Theatre and has also been accepted by London agent Paul Spyker.

Her step-father, Alan Spencer, who is married to her mum, Susan, was delighted at the news.

He said: "It is great and she is absolutely thrilled to bits. She loves every minute of it and is so excited.

"We are hoping this will lead to bigger and better things and, from what the agent has said, it should do. Maybe there will be a director out there who watches and recognises her talents.

"She would love to do the major soaps all the young ones are interested in, such as Corrie, but I am sure that will come in time."

He added: "She is playing the girlfriend of a lad who breaks out of prison and it's all very exciting for her because it's her first main part.

"She auditioned for a part in Footballers' Wives, but when we looked at the script we said we wouldn't even allow her to watch the show never mind be part of it!"

Rachel will be showing off her talents when the episode is shown on Sunday.