A BUDDING star from Chelsfield says she is determined to continue her search for fame despite losing out in a live TV audition.

Nineteen-year-old Kathleen Baker, of Derry Downs, was one of six finalists in the Auctionworld television contest selected from thousands.

She spent an afternoon in the studios working with professionals but was pipped at the post in a phone-vote.

The ex-Priory school pupil was entered into the competition in the Sun newspaper by her mother.

The teenager beat thousands of other young hopefuls to reach the final.

She is currently taking a year out after finishing her A Levels to see if she can achieve her ambition of TV stardom.

Kathleen said: "I had a great time doing the competition.

"I don't mind the fact that I didn't win as I was the youngest there so there's plenty of time.

"Even though I was terrified, I enjoyed the experience of being in the studio working with another presenter.

"I just had to be confident and bubbly the whole time and it was fun.

"I'm still determined to pursue this career. I plan to send tapes to other channels, like VH1 and MTV."

December 19, 2001 12:00