IN THE daylight hours she works part-time in the office of a music equipment company.

But at the weekend, Harlene Evans takes centre stage at clubs across the North-East to entertain audiences with her vocal talents.

After five years on the circuit, the 36-year-old from Birtley, near Gateshead, is celebrating her second clubland award.

Harlene, who uses only her first name on stage, has been voted the region's best female singer in the Regal Club Act Awards.

Two years ago she was female singer of the year in the awards given Durham Concert Secretaries.

Although born in Stanley, Harlene - who is named after Jean Harlow, whose real name was Harlene Carpenter - went to stage school at the age of four.

She started singing professionally after getting encouragement during a New Year's Eve sing-along at a club.

Harlene said: "It is great and I'm thrilled to bits to get my second award.

"It is nice to be recognised for all the hard work I have put in.

"I put on a show. There are a lot of costume changes and I perform a variety of different music, for young people right through to older people.

"I could work seven nights a week and I have been offered work abroad - but I have a husband who has a very good job.

"I love meeting people and I talk to audiences a lot - I don't just sing - and I think people warm to me."

Harlene will receive her award on Friday at the Lancastrian Suite, at the Federation Brewery, Dunston, Gateshead.

*She will be performing at Grange Villa Club, between Stanley and Chester-le-Street, next Sunday at 7.30pm.