Fiona out to be Speaking Clock

The dulcet tones of Fiona Hankin have beaten off competition from more than 18,000 others. She is now one of the finalists to become only the fourth voice of the national institution.

The contest has been raising money for Children in Need and the winner - judged by a panel including newsreader Natasha Kaplinsky - will be announced on BBC TV on Friday.

Mrs Hankin, 50, who is a member of Shrewsbury Operatic Society, said she had told no-one - not even her husband - that she was entering.

"It was just one of those things, you think it's a good cause and I'll do my bit," she said.

"I was born and bred in Shropshire, but used to have a broad Scottish accent because I lived in Scotland for a year as a child. When I came back I lost it.

"The first thing I did when I heard I was on the shortlist was ring my husband, who cracked up laughing.

"I am delighted to be one of the 15 finalists. It is fantastic."

Established in 1936, the Speaking Clock has only ever had three permanent voices, so the lucky winner will take his or her place in British history.

The BT Speaking Clock will have a new voice to help celebrate its 70th birthday.

Aa total of 18,405 entries were received from across the UK and Channel Islands. BT says choosing the winner will be tricky.