Connie signs album deal

Young singing sensation Connie Talbot has signed a six figure recording deal and could be in line for a Christmas number one album, just weeks after being dumped by Simon Cowell's record label.

The gap toothed six-year-old schoolgirl from Streetly won the hearts of the nation and the hard-to-impress Simon Cowell with her performances on the TV show Britain's Got Talent.

After finishing runner-up to opera singer Paul Potts she was snapped up by record company Sony BMG, recording two songs, Somewhere Over the Rainbow and Smile.

Bookmakers quickly installed the Blackwood Primary School pupil as their favourite to be Christmas number one.

But she was left heartbroken after company bosses dramatically changed their mind telling Connie and her parents Sharon and Gavin she was too young.

However, her dreams of singing stardom have been rekindled after landing a contract with the Rainbow Recording Company in a six figure deal.

Mum Sharon said: "It just proves that all the hard work she put in throughout Britain's Got Talent has not gone to waste.

"We are so proud of her, we knew she could do it. Connie's over the moon and can't wait till the album comes out.

"Connie loves singing so for her it's a dream come true. It's her hobby and she loves it.

"The recording company came to our home and she has been recording the songs after school. They have not been putting her under any pressure and she has been thoroughly enjoying the experience."

The album is due to be released on November 26, with producers with music experts predicting it will be a big hit this Christmas and could possibly land the number one spot.

It is hoped that Somewhere Over The Rainbow will be released as a single.

Since appearing on Britain's Got Talent earlier this year Connie has become a familiar face around Walsall and has also been recognised while on holiday abroad with her parents.

She performed at the opening of Tesco's new 24-hour store in Willenhall earlier this year and is also due to switch on Walsall's Christmas lights on November 22, just days before her album is released.