BARRHEAD’S newest singing sensation shone in a national contest 15 years ago — while suffering from a COLD.

Talented 10-year-old Saskia Thain was chosen from hundreds of entries to take part in the regional heat of the Jammie Dodgers’ Jam the Mic competition back in 2003.

With a stunning rendition of jazz singer Norah Jones’ Don’t Know Why, the Springhill Primary pupil certainly impressed judges.

Although she never made it to the final in London, Saskia had her heart set on following in the footsteps of the town’s other two starlets Jaclyn Bell and Ashley McCullagh of Junior Stars In Their Eyes fame.

Mum Miriam was the first to spot her talent while driving in the car, and sent off a tape to the organisers.

Singing star Saskia said of her debut on stage: “I was nervous, but just a little bit.

“Sitting waiting was the hardest part but once you’re up there you’re fine.

“I chose to sing Norah Jones because my mum said I was great at it. I love singing and my other favourite is Avril Lavigne’s I’m With You.

“All my friends were really excited for me. I would love to do more contests.

“I haven’t done it before but I did sing on holiday. Maybe one day I’ll audition for Pop Idol. It’s my favourite show and I watch it all the time.”

Up against 19 other competitors at Asda in Parkhead, the supermarket was the venue for all the heats across the country.

The standard was incredible but Saskia still managed to wow the judges, who had a difficult task picking an eventual winner.

Proud mum Miriam told the News: “She was very good despite having the cold. The family had just returned from Ibiza and we are all suffering.

“I first heard her singing Norah Jones in the car, and thought she was excellent. I sent her tape to Linwood. She was the only one to do a song by someone like Norah, everyone else did pop stars like Britney.”