2009 X Factor finalist Lucie Jones makes her TV acting debut in Midsomer Murders on ITV and UTV Northern Ireland this Wednesday, February 11 as an aspiring folk singer, and has also recorded a track for the episode.
Jones' character, Melody Carver, becomes involved in a police investigation when a song made famous by her late uncle is linked to a series of killings.
Jones said: "I have acted on stage but I've never been given the opportunity to do TV acting before, so I didn't expect to get anything from the audition. I was very nervous, so when I got the job it was amazing.
"On the first day of filming I was absolutely terrified but the director, Renny Rye, was my rock. He was so patient with me, offering quiet advice when needed and giving me a boost when things were tough."
She continued: "He talked me through step by step and Sean Gilder, who plays my dad, really helped me - what a lovely, lovely man.
"I get to sing a song called The Ballad of Midsomer County, which was written especially by Seth Lakeman. He's a brilliant songwriter and we recorded it at a music studio in Shepherd's Bush."
The Ballad of Midsomer County is available on iTunes from Wednesday February 11 and will also appear on the upcoming Midsomer Murders album, which will be released in March.
Jones added: "The song we are releasing alongside the show is the icing on the cake for me. I was so excited to get the role and kickstart my acting career, but to be able to sing alongside it and release a tune - awesome!
"Midsomer Murders was such an incredible experience. The actors were so amazing to work with, really welcoming and enthusiastic about it being my first role. I had so many hugely experienced people offering help and advice."
