A TALENTED young singer from county Cavan who performs regularly in Fermanagh is among the contestants on TG4’s annual search for Ireland’s latest country music sensation.

Alanna Maher (21), from Swanlinbar, has been making a name for herself over the past few years, gigging across the country and singing support to some of the top country artists, such as Robert Mizzell, Lisa Mc Hugh, Derek Ryan and Johnny Brady.

She is a regular visitor to Fermanagh and has performed on stage at Mahon’s Hotel in Irvinestown.

The Cavan girl will now be appearing on TG4’s search for a country star competition, ‘Glór Tíre’, which begins on Tuesday, January 3.

Alanna has always been singing from a young age so getting an opportunity such as this is an amazing one for her.

“I was delighted when Robert Mizzell asked if I would like to be his contestant on the show.

“It is a fantastic opportunity for me to boost my career on the country scene and I’m really grateful for it,” she said.

“Having always watched the show, it’s surreal to actually be a contestant on the next series.

“Robert has been a great mentor and friend to me and he has also invited me to sing a few songs along with him and his band in the coming months, so I’m really looking forward to that,” she added.

Alanna has pre-recorded three shows so far at the Quays Bar in Galway, which will be broadcast on January 3, February 14 (featuring Robert Mizzell) and March 14, before moving on to the live shows in Galway on March 21, where two contestants will then will be eliminated each week.

“We had a great time recording for the show and it was unreal to front a stage with such amazing musicians behind me, as well as duetting with Robert Mizzell.

“It was really a dream come true. I’m so grateful for the support I have received so far and for everyone who came down to Galway for the pre-recordings,” she said

Having gigged a lot around Fermanagh and the surrounding areas the past few years, Alanna is appealing for votes in the 2017 series of ‘Glór Tíre’.

The voting lines open after the first show on Tuesday, January 3.

To vote for Alanna, simply text GLOR 6 to 53307 (ROI) or 60999 (NI), or you can call 1513 41510 6 (ROI) or 0901 656610 6 (NI). You can also download the ‘Glór Tíre’ app on Google Play, which will give you five free votes. To keep up to date with all of Alanna’s gigs and her ‘Glór Tíre’ journey, just check out her Facebook page.