'Talent' star signs £2.3 million deal

Faryl Smith has reportedly signed a £2.3 million record deal with Universal.

The Britain's Got Talent finalist, who caught the public attention for her rendition of 'Ave Maria' on the ITV show, was also being sought by Simon Cowell and a number of other record companies, reports the Daily Mail.

The 13-year-old's parents are said to be impressed with how Universal has helped turn opera singer Katherine Jenkins into a global name.

Smith said: "It's all just so overwhelming. I'm honoured to be joining such a fantastic record company, especially since it's where Katherine started. She has been brilliant, there's so much to learn and she will always take my calls, I feel much better knowing she is around.

"This is about the opportunity of a lifetime for me, singing is my passion and to be given the opportunity to make a career of it at such a young age is a dream come true."

Universal's Dickon Stainer said the size of the deal reflects the company's faith in Smith as a "long-term artist".

Smith's debut album is expected in May 2009.