TOTTINGTON soap star Lisa Riley has been honoured by the nation's small screen viewing pubic.

Lisa, who plays the bubbly Mandy Dingle in ITV's Emmerdale, was watched by millions on Wednesday night as she collected the National TV Award's Best Newcomer prize during a lavish, star studded ceremony at London's Royal Albert Hall.

The former St Gabriel's RC High School pupil appeared in other leading British soap operas and drama series' before landing the Dingle role at Christmas of last year.

Currently living in Leeds, Lisa (20) is expected to return to her Spring Close family home in Tottington this weekend to celebrate the award with her brother and parents.

Her mum Mrs Cath Riley said: "Lisa is absolutely over the moon.

"She knew she had been nominated for the award but never thought she would win it. I am really proud of her."

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