A BELFAST doctor who paid for her medical studies by singing in pubs has showcased her musical talent by performing in front of millions on prime time television.
Ciara Mackey (30), who works as an A&E doctor in Belfast, appeared on 'Michael McIntyre's Big Show' from London's West End on BBC TV on Saturday night.
Having been whisked away to London for what she believed was a romantic weekend by her boyfriend Simon, Ms Mackey was instead taken to the fictitious Grand Hotel, a redecorated part of the historic Theatre Royal in Drury Lane, from where the show was broadcast.
After being shown to their room by actors posing as hotel staff, the curtain was removed to reveal that Ms Mackey had been chosen to sing on stage in front of the assembled audience, as well as for the millions watching at home.
Collapsing to her knees in shock in front of the cheering auditorium, Ms Mackey remained speechless before finally managing to utter: "You're Michael McIntyre".
Her mother, Liz, told the comedian and presenter that her daughter had been singing since she was "three or four years old".
The doctor has already appeared in stage productions in Belfast, including playing the role of Lady of the Lake in 'Spamalot' in the Grand Opera House earlier this year.
Ms Mackey, who told the show it was a "dream of mine to perform on stage", sang "On my Own", the Samantha Barks hit made famous in the musical Les Miserables.
Mr McIntyre said: "You were sensational and it was an absolute treat for us to have you sing tonight".
