A WARRINGTON singer is set to hit the big time after being signed by a major record label.

Former Padgate High School pupil Kerry Katona, aged 18, is a member of the new teenage girl band Atomic Kitten who are preparing to perform on the world stage after clinching a record deal with music giants Virgin.

Kerry and Liverpool girls Natasha Hamilton, aged 16, and Liz McLarnon, aged 18, were brought together by former OMD songwriters Andy McCluskey and Stuart Kershaw and their partner Martin O'Shea.

Andy and Stuart have been concentrating on writing material for the teenage trio and it was a selection of their 'street pop' songs and a fantastic performance by the young singers that impressed Virgin bosses.

Kerry said: "The songs that Andy and Stuart have written are so good that I think we can make it big. Our first single, Right Now, comes out on November 22 and we are hoping that it will reach the top 10.

"My ambition is to play one of the big festival venues because if you do that you know have made it big. I'd also love to tour America and be successful over there."

Atomic Kitten has been touring clubs as well as playing at under 18s shows and gay pride festivals. The girls will travel to Japan in October and their first album is expected to be out at the end of November.

Martin O'Shea believes the girls have what it takes to go straight to the top.

He said: "We have a lot on our plates if we want Atomic Kitten to surpass the Spice Girls. But the songs are great, the girls can sing and they look fantastic."

Kerry added: "I didn't expect it all to happen so fast. My family and friends are still in shock."

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