Lonan’s Samantha Barks is to present a new show on Heart radio’s musicals station.

The West End and Broadway actor and singer is to host a brand-new show on Saturday afternoons from midday to 3pm starting from this weekend.

A spokesperson for the broadcaster said: ‘With an acclaimed career spanning shows like Les Misérables, Frozen and Cabaret, Samantha brings her infectious love of musical theatre to listeners, sharing her favourite songs from the greatest musicals, along with the stories and memories behind them.’

Every Saturday, the 35-year-old will showcase songs from the biggest West End, Broadway and movie musicals including exclusive Heart Musicals acoustic performances - intimate, stripped-back versions of iconic musical theatre songs.

In a brand new feature, Samantha will invite listeners on air to chat about the first musical they ever saw, the last one they watched and their all-time favourite in ‘First, Last, Fave'.

The former St Ninian’s and Laxey school pupil said: ‘If you love musicals as much as me, then make sure you’re with me every weekend.

‘We’ll hear from the stars, bring you the latest musical theatre news and have loads of your messages throughout the show too! I really want to hear from you guys and I want this to be our show. Our stagey little corner where we can be musical nerds together.’

Managing editor of Heart Richard Steel said: ‘I’m hugely excited to welcome Samantha to the Heart team. She’s an incredible talent, a proper star on stage and screen, and someone our audience already loves.

‘Her new show is going to become a real appointment to listen for musical theatre fans, and I can’t wait to hear her bring her personality, stories and genuine love of musicals to Heart every weekend. Plus, our team karaoke nights have just stepped up a notch!’

Heart Musicals can be found on digital radio, Global Player and the official Heart app.