Gemma Hayes backs Doves and Bowie for music prize

Tipperary native Gemma Hayes is one of the surprise inclusions on the shortlist for this year's Panasonic Mercury Music Prize.

The Irish singer songwriter is backing Doves or David Bowie to win the £20,000 (€31,000) prize.

"I'm just chuffed to be on the list," said the 24-year-old Tipperary singer.

Her debut album Night On My Side is nominated for the award.

"I was doing a session for the Jo Whiley show when they told me I was on the list," she said.

"I couldn't believe it. You make an album and put it out and hope people like it, you don't expect to get it nominated on a list that includes people like David Bowie and Doves. It's wacky!

"I love the Doves album, I think they deserve to win."