Balham laundrette owner, Lucinda Belle is saying farewell to dirty undies and hello to stardom as she prepares for an appearance at Hampton Court Palace Festival.

Belle was spotted by Fearne Cotton playing the harp and singing backing vocals for Robbie Williams last year and has since signed with Univeral Records.

Next up is her performance at the Hampton Court Palace Festival on June 12.

“We really owe so much to Henry VIII, he was a great composer,” she says.

“If it wasn’t for him we wouldn’t have the Christ Church Cathedral Choir.

But he didn’t use the type of harp that I play. His was more like a Gaelic harp or lyre.”

At 36 Belle is about to release her debut album, My Voice & 45 Strings. She has worked as a session musician for the Pet Shop Boys and Annie Lennox.

“I have always loved doing session work because it’s creative – you’re part of something that’s bigger than you,” she says.

“But working on the album was an absolutely amazing experience.

“To be in a room with all these musicians, and actually working on an album that’s yours, not someone else’s, navigating the music, is fantastic.”

“Initially the album was a bit more country, but it turned towards gypsy jazz with southern gospel influences.”

Belle has recently had to put her laundrette on the market, to the dismay of others on the shopping parade. “It has always helped me to keep one foot in the industry, and it’s like a family heirloom,” she says. “I haven’t sold it yet, and if I don’t have to I’d rather not, but it’s not looking good at the moment.”

“Breaking into the industry was a hard slog, during which Belle also worked as a music teacher.

“It’s not like I’ve just been trying for two years. When you’re a bit older I think you’re grateful when these opportunities come along,” she says .

Belle will perform at the festival on the same night as Nicola Benedetti.

Lucinda Belle, Hampton Court Palace Festival, June 12, 7.30pm, £42.50/£47.50. Call 0844 811 0050 or visit hamptoncourtfestival.com