Leah to be honoured for being ‘a great ambassador for Newtownabbey’

The 24-year-old shot to stardom on the hit BBC 1 talent contest The Voice earlier this year.

She impressed the competition judges which included the legendary Tom Jones and influential rapper Will.i.am.

Such was the impact Leah made following her debut performance on the prime time show she was installed as a instant favourite to win the competition.

Despite this, however, Leah was pipped to the post by fellow Northern Irish girl Andrea Begley in a nail-biting final.

But, not to be deterred, Leah is working on a new album and looks set to carve a name for herself on the global music stage.

At Monday’s council meeting it was proposed that the borough recognise the contribution of the talented singer for her work promoting the area.

Proposing the motion, Councillor Mandy Girvan said: “Leah was a great ambassador for Newtownabbey.

“She was runner-up in the competition, but worked hard and showed her dedication all the way through it.

“For anyone that saw the programme, they will have seen that Newtownabbey was mentioned several times.

“Leah is the example of a young person who has brought the feel good factor back to the borough rather than those young people who have been doing bad things of late. And for that I believe that the borough and this council should in some way show their appreciation for her positive contribution.”

Councillor John Scott added: “I am happy to second that motion on the basis that Leah bring Will.i.am to the borough!”

Mayor Fraser Agnew concluded: “We will have the council officers draw up some kind of proposal to see how we can recognise her contribution.”

Since fashion student Leah’s success on the BBC 1 show, the songstress has been courted by industry music bosses and is hoping to release her own album.