Fingers crossed for our Bronagh!

The former pupil of Millburn Primary School, has been named as a finalist in the 'Best Newcomer' category at this year's awards.

The 26-year-old joined Hollyoaks back in May, as loopy Irish girl Cheryl - and since then Bronagh hasn't looked back.

"I'm so proud to be nominated for this award" Bronagh told The Coleraine Times.

"I'm the only Irish actress to be nominated, and the only girl in my category, so I'm thrilled.

"It's great to be flying the flag for Northern Ireland."

Bronagh was back in Coleraine last weekend and couldn't believe the reaction she received from local folk.

"My granny still lives in Coleraine, so I love coming back.

"I was back last weekend, and it was mental.

"I went to The Anchor for a few drinks with some friends, and there were people coming up to me wanting pictures. It was lovely, people are so nice."

Bronagh has been handed an 18-month contract with the Channel 4 soap, but says she couldn't believe it when her agent told her she had an audition for the part.

"I said to my agent 'Hollyoaks, are you sure?'

"Have then seen a photo of me? After all I don't exactly fit into what people think a Hollyoaks girl is."

But Bronagh's character Cheryl has fitted in really well.

"I'm loving my time at Hollyoaks, everyone is so nice. It's great fun going to work, and I really enjoy it.

Bronagh admits she is bursting with excitement about the National Television Awards.

"It's like when you are little you dream of rubbing shoulders with the stars, and I'm actually doing it, I just hope I don't trip up on the red carpet!

"I'm up against three other great actors - Craig Gazey, who plays Graeme in Corrie, James Sutton who is Ryan in Emmerdale and Neill Mc Dermott who plays Ryan in Eastenders.

"Of course they all have about ten times the number of viewers than Hollyoaks do, but it's great to be nominated. You never know, if the people of Northern Ireland get behind me I could be in with a chance."

You can vote for Bronagh by visiting the National Television Awards website at www.nationaltvawards.com or by phoning 0901 888 2009. Voting closes on January 20, the day of the award ceremony.