A PROMISING singer-songwriter from York is to star in a regional TV programme.

Jess Gardham, of South Bank, will feature on My Yorkshire on ITV1, in a 15-minute slot showing her bid to conquer the music industry.

The 22-year-old, who describes her music as an acoustic, folk, soul fusion, was approached by presenter Ian Clayton after he picked up a copy of her EP.

Ian arranged for her to play in his local pub, and followed her life in York as she worked as a dental nurse by day and musician by night.

"I've been playing music for about eight years; I've always been interested in it," said Jess.

"I've grown up around music, as my dad (Martin Gardham) was a musician and my step-dad (Rob Van Sante) is a musician, so it was natural for me to do it.

"I can't imagine life without it."

Last year, Jess supported singer KT Tunstall at a gig in Leeds and performed on the radio with BBC North Yorkshire. She has also supported Kathryn Williams.

Together with pianist Ali Lawrence, she has become a regular face in music venues in and around York and often accompanies her step-father as he performs around the country.

She has played many festivals, and took part in the tsunami fundraiser, Fives Saves Lives, at Toffs nightclub earlier this year.

"My family are definitely my inspiration, especially my dad," she said.

"People say other music provides your inspiration, but most of mine comes from home."

Jess hopes the show will catapult her into the industry.

She said: "I'm hoping it will lead on to bigger and better things and that I will get more gigs.

"I really enjoy what I do."

To keep up-to-date on Jess's progress, log on to

www.jessgardham.com

My Yorkshire, a True North Production, will be screened on ITV1 on Sunday, September 4, at 4.30pm.

Updated: 10:39 Saturday, September 03, 2005