Sam lands role of Nancy

Sam Barks will finally get to play the role she spent so long preparing for when she takes to the stage as Nancy in a production of Oliver in December.

The 21-year-old from the Isle of Man lost out on the role on the BBC reality show I'd Do Anything, three years ago.

But it's been confirmed she is to star alongside Neil Morrissey and Brian Conley in a touring production which starts at the Wales Millennium Centre in Cardiff on December 20.

She came third on I'd Do Anything in 2008, when Jodie Prenger from Blackpool won the show, and the chance to play Nancy in the West End.