GLUSBURN teenager Niamh Mirfield has taken another step into the music industry after receiving another award.

Niamh, 15, finished as a runner up in the Under 18s category of the UK Songwriting Contest 2017 with her song, Love Drug, after being named as a finalist in the competition.

“I’m so proud of my girl Niamh,” said her father, Scott Mirfield. “We were surprised because there were thousand of entries.

“I’m so pleased for her. It’s a fantastic achievement.”

In a Facebook post about the Under 18s award, the UK Songwriting Contest wrote: “Love Drug, although not the winner this year, is an outstanding runner up and it was a close contender for winning position.

“Congratulations Niamh for getting so close and congrats to all involved in this track.”

Scott said the accolade was particularly impressive as the judges were leading producers and songwriters in the music industry.

Scott added: “Because they were really happy with her entry, they will be making a CD and shipping it to record companies, which could open doors to a record contract.”

In addition to the Under 18s accolade, Niamh was also a semi-finalist with Love Drug in the Open Age category of the contest.

Niamh’s achievement follows on from her success in November 2016 when she finished as a runner up for best song in the Best of British Unsigned Song of 2016.

Scott said his daughter, who attends South Craven School, is taking all the accolades in her stride.

“She’s very humble about it,” he said. “When Niamh sings, her voice draws people to her.”

He also thanked Dave Swift and Derek Nash, bass guitarist and saxophonist in Jools Holland’s Rhythm and Blues Orchestra, and drummer Darby Todd, who has played with The Darkness, for their fantastic support of Niamh.

Scott said: “She’s been meeting and getting advice from musicians who have extensive experience in the music industry.”

In addition to the success she has had with songs Can’t Stand This Anymore and Love Drug, Niamh has also written another song, Love Me.

Scott said: “She’s written and performed it acoustically on BBC Radio York - BBC Music Introducing in York and North Yorkshire.

“She is going to record the song with Dave Sorbo and transform it into a polished song ready for release.”

Niamh is also looking forward to performing as part of Grassington Festival’s Fringe programme this summer.

Her gig at the Gamekeeper’s Inn, Long Ashes Park, Threshfield, will be held on Monday, June 18.