'Downton Abbey' actress top release album

'Downton Abbey' actress Elizabeth McGovern is releasing an album.

The 51-year-old star - who plays the Countess of Grantham in the hit British show - has formed a band entitled Sadie & The Hotheads and she admits she is "in awe" of her bandmates Simon Nelson, Steve Nelson, Ron Knights, Nick Lacey, Lizzie Dean and Teryl Bryant.

She said: "I am in awe of the musicians who I had the opportunity to work with on this project. They create magic out of thin air!

"Time and time again, on whatever drafty stage or pub we happened to be in. With good humour and joy in their art, they begin to play. It gives me faith. That it's all worth it, for its own sake and for the joy. This is what I hope we can convey."

The group are releasing a 12-track album entitled 'How Not To Lose Things', and a single 'Cow Song', which will both go on sale on October 29.

They initially formed when McGovern responded to an advert for guitar lessons placed by Nelson.