St.Helens Got Talent

Young people reach for the stars

Young singers and dancers wowed a full house at the Theatre Royal for the grand finale of St.Helens' Got Talent.

The contest was organised by social landlord Riverside in partnership with Merseyside Police and Safer St.Helens.

St.Helens' Got Talent was funded by Riverside and also by Safer St Helens, through the Neighbourhood Action Groups - problem solving groups who work to tackle neighbourhood issues involving crime, anti-social behaviour and disorder.

A total of 31 acts who qualified at heats held across the borough entertained a packed crowd of over 700 people.

The winners in the dance category were YMCA Gymnastics. Street crew KL Dance came second and Irish dancer Megan Ramsey came third.

The Junior category was won by Cole Emsley, who sang Beyonce's Listen. Keira Turner was second and Ellie Prescott was third.

Nicole Fagan, who sung a song from Les Misérables, won the senior category. Tom Loughlin who sung O Sole Mio came second and girl group 5th Sense came third.

Sitting on the judging panel were: 60s band 'Top Spots' singer Mike Murphy, Cllr Barrie Grunewald, Cllr Sue Murphy, Riverside's Community Engagement Manager Frank Burke, and Safer St Helens ASB Coordinator Colette McIntyre. The event was compered by Chris Milow from Wish FM.

Frank Burke said: "Now in its sixth year, St Helens Got Talent is a great way of channeling young people's energies into something positive.

"All too often young people are labeled as anti-social but this event challenges these kinds of stereotypes and proves that the vast majority of young people are responsible citizens who have a lot to offer within the community.

"The standard of entries was really high and in addition to the new talent, we were delighted to welcome back one of last year's winners - dancer Laura Doveaston"

Cllr Sue Murphy, Cabinet Member for Family Intervention and Safer Communities, added: "St Helens got Talent was a real celebration of all that's good about young people.

"Their creativity, energy and talent shone through and showed that we've got a lot to be proud about when we talk about young people and their contribution to their communities."

  
Captions: Winners with judges at the event!