AN EDEN Valley teenager says she is overjoyed after securing her place in a TV talent show's closing stages.

Millions of viewers watched as 17-year-old Anna Willison-Holt sang for her survival on Saturday night's episode of The Voice UK.

Grammy-winning music producer will.i.am, of The Black Eyed Peas, described Anna and her opponent as "flawless" after they battled it out singing Teardrops, the 1988 hit by Womack & Womack. Anna, who lives in Great Strickland, said she was delighted with the choice as it is her mum Helen's favourite song.

"I'm lost for words. I just can't believe it," said Anna after keeping her place on Team Will - completing an incredible double success for the rural Eden Valley on the glitzy ITV show.

Two weeks ago her school friend Eliza Gutteridge, of Long Marton, near Appleby, won her own battle to stay on Sir Tom Jones' team, her musical hero.

The two 17-year-olds are studying A-levels at Queen Elizabeth Grammar School, Penrith, and both are classically trained singers taught by Barbara Gilbertson, of Dufton. The music teacher said: "Oh my goodness, I am so happy and proud that two of my singing pupils are in the last 24 of The Voice."

Saturday's episode saw Anna sing head-to-head with contestant Chantelle Nandi, of London, known as Nandi. Although team coach will.i.am chose Anna, Nandi lived to fight another day after being saved by Sir Tom, much to Anna's delight.

The Voice UK contest will now move into its knockout rounds, with the number of singers halved to 12 before the live finals, expected to be aired on Saturday, April 7. A recording contract with Polydor Records - the label of Take That, Sting, Lady Gaga and Elbow - awaits the winner.