RECORDINGS by a promising singer-songwriter have been included on the soundtracks of two feature films.

An a cappella version of Amazing Grace, performed by 21-year-old Hayley McKay, from Hurworth, near Darlington, features on the soundtrack of the Tynesidebased film Harrigan.

Starring Stephen Tompkinson as a detective, the film is set on a crime-ridden estate in the 1970s against a backdrop of strikes and urban decay.

Another of Hayley's performances, a version of the Skye Boat Song, features on the film Road to Calum, set on a remote Scottish island and based on a true story.

Both films are the work of Newcastle-based production company Tall Tree Pictures.

Hayley, who commutes to London each week to take part in a recording artist development course, said: "I am really pleased to have my work in these two films - it is all about trying to build myself up.

"In Harrigan, my song was used over quite a violent scene in the film, so it was quite surreal hearing my voice against that backdrop."

Hayley, who is also part of the duo Silent Houses, added: "I am working on an EP and ultimately, I would like to be recognised as a respectable artist and singersongwriter."