SHE is no stranger to the spotlight, and now a Hampshire woman is hoping her Christmas single will hit the number one chart spot.

Juliet Howland’s single encourages people to think of those less fortunate than themselves at this time of year.

She began writing music as a child but never had the courage to show anyone or perform in public, but in 1995 everything changed.

Her 24-year-old brother collapsed and died at her family home, prompting Juliet to “wake up” and “realise you only live once”.

She sold her London flat and took the plunge by flying to Los Angeles.

The Winchester actress and singer is now releasing Light A Candle, which was recorded, mixed and produced in LA with Rob Seals.

It was mastered by five times Grammy Award winner Gavin Lurssen.

Her career has seen her travel the world; recording music with the masterminds behind Pharrell’s Happy and starring alongside Hollywood star Benedict Cumberbatch in the award-winning production After the Dance.

“I first got the acting bug at Peter Symonds College,” says Juliet.

“It took me a long time to get there, but doing something with my music and recording Light A Candle was a result of ‘you only live once’. When you see someone you love, your sibling, die right in front of you aged 24, it’s the biggest wake up call. We only get one shot at life.”

Light A Candle is available from Cornflowers in College Street, Winchester, the cathedral shop, or online at juliethowland.com.