Newbury singer Frances shortlisted for BRIT Award

Excited singer-songwriter, 22, nominated for Critics Choice Award

Newbury singer-songwriter Frances has today been shortlisted for a prestigious BRIT Award in the Critics' Choice category.

The former St Gabriel's School pupil said on her Facebook page this morning: "I am unbelievably happy to say that I have been nominated for this year's BRIT Awards Critics' Choice!!

"Really can't believe it.

"Thank you so much for everyone's support so far, it's been wonderful. So excited for 2016! Xxx"

Frances, 22, whose full name is Sophie Frances Cooke, is currently on tour in America with James Bay, who won the same category at the BRITs last year.

She is up against fellow nominees Izzy Bizu and Jack Garratt in the prestigious category also previously won by Adele, Emeli Sande, Florence + The Machine, Ellie Goulding and Sam Smith.

Frances has written with Howard Lawrence from Disclosure and played a Live Lounge cover of Justin Bieber on Radio 1. Her single, Borrowed Time, is out on Capitol Records on January 15.

She said: “It’s such a huge honour to be nominated for the Critics’ Choice Award.

"I’ve followed the Brits my whole life, but never thought I’d be lucky enough to be nominated.

"It’s amazing to be a part of something that has included so many of my idols and musical inspirations. An amazing feeling. Thank you.”