Stevenston rock sensation Anna Muir is trying to raise funds after being awarded a scholarship to take part in an Italian opera.

As rock singer Annastaisyar, Anna has attracted the attention of some big names in the British music scene and performed at top venues such as King Tut’s and the Barrowlands.

But the gifted 13-year-old recently discovered that she also has a beautiful soprano voice – a rare talent to be able to sing opera as well as rock.

And it looks like Anna, who only started singing a year ago, could now be on course for similar success in the opera world.

The Auchenharvie Academy pupil has won a month-long scholarship to sing with the International Opera Theatre in Italy.

Anna, who goes by the name of Annushka in her opera persona, told the Herald: “Helen Lothian, my vocal coach, says I’ve got a rare talent because I can sing both rock and opera. Not many people can do that.

“I got an audition piece where I sang Pie Jesu by Andrew Lloyd Webber. Now I’m going to Italy for a month. I’m so excited, it’s a fantastic opportunity.

“I also had the opportunity to support Wet Wet Wet and The Charlatans, but I gave these up because I’ll be in Italy for this.

“It was really good that I had these opportunities, but I had to go to Italy.

“I’m so buzzing, I’m really excited. It’s such a great opportunity especially from a girl from Stevenston.”

Anna is pleased with the support from her friends and family.

She said: “They’re really happy. A lot of them are more excited than I am. It’s just a small town and not much happens so it’s caused a lot of excitement.”

Calum Johnston, head teacher at Auchenharvie Academy, added: “We’re very proud of Anna.

“We know how musical she is and how that’s where her passion is.

“She’s a good role model for pupils in the school.”

Anna is holding her first fundraising gig at Glasgow’s Hard Rock Café on May 18. Full details to follow soon.