Show proves Lisburn’s got talent

Mayor Andrew Ewing presents the trophy to Wallace High School student Amy Montgomery after she won the 'Lisburn's Got Talent' show at the civic centre. US1508-546cd Picture: Cliff Donaldson

‘Lisburn’s Got Talent’ was staged at the Lagan Valley Island on Tuesday February 24 to raise money for this year’s Mayoral charity Marie Curie Cancer Care.

There was a wide range of talent on display on the night, including singing and dancing, as well as a display of choral work from Killowen Primary School.

The compere for the evening was Lisburn Mayor Councillor Andrew Ewing and the judges were Lagan Valley MP Jeffrey Donaldson, Principal of Lisburn School of Music Stephen McLoughlin, Naomi Orr and Sarah Collyer, who agreed the level of talent was exceptional.

Amy was crowned champion on the night, being praised for her superb singing voice and guitar playing. Amy’s prize consisted of a hamper donated by Carlisle Fresh Foods in Ballynahinch, two tickets for Mama Mia in the Odyssey Arena donated by Cool FM and an Engraved Crystal Trophy.

The Mayor of Lisburn, Councillor Andrew Ewing was delighted with the turnout of people in the audience and the quality of acts performing on the night.

Speaking about the event, Councillor Ewing said: “I thoroughly enjoyed the evening’s entertainment and would like to thank all the contestants for taking part. Those who came along to support the event definitely had an unforgettable night and the evening raised over £2,000 for Marie Curie Cancer Care.

“The range of talent on display was fantastic and I am sure this made it very hard for the judges to make the winning decision. Congratulations to Amy on winning what was a very close contest.

“On behalf of the Council, I would urge all the competitors to continue their chosen talents and I would not be surprised to see any of you on Britain’s Got Talent, The X factor or The Voice in the future.

“May I also take this opportunity to thank the judging panel – Jeffrey Donaldson, Naomi Orr, Sarah Collyer and Stephen McLoughlin for taking the time and thankfully making a decision that I don’t believe I would have been able to make on the night.”

Judge Stephen McLoughlin added: “I would like to congratulate all the participants of Lisburn’s Got Talent for the display their wonderful talents, and Andrew for sharing his talent too. It was a truly wonderful night.

“Amy was a clear winner to me because of her holistic talent. To me she wasn’t just performing but was lost in it, and gave of herself as she sang. I was captivated from beginning to end by her song, and would gladly buy her album when it’s done. A well deserved winner of an excellent night.”