X Factor star pays a visit to Lisburn

Australian X Factor star Andrew Lawson in the Mayor's office along with Lisburn Mayor Margaret Tolerton, Alderman Allan Ewart and Julie and Harry Lawson. INUS4313-RECEP

Andrew Lawson, 21, was just six when he and sister Alex emigrated to New Zealand with their parents Julie and Harry who owned a Butcher’s shop in Bridge Street with his late father William Lawson. Julie and Harry are now living in Queensland.

Councillor Allan Ewart, who used to be a neighbour of the Lawson family when they lived in Broomhedge, was delighted to hear that Andrew would be back in Lisburn with his parents visiting family so organised for him to meet the Mayor, Councillor Margaret Tolerton as well as visit his old school Ballymacash Primary where Andrew performed to a packed assembly hall.

Mr Ewart said: “The family emigrated to New Zealand 15 years ago and then moved to Australia. They were back in Northern Ireland to visit family and the Mayor kindly received them in the parlour.”

He added: “I enjoyed meeting with the Lawson family and reminisced about former times.”

Andrew started playing guitar at age seven, and writes his own music. Singing is the first thing he does when he gets up and the last thing he does before bed.

He is currently travelling the world and taking some time out before he concentrates full time on his music career.

Since X Factor Andrew says he has had some amazing opportunities.

Andrew Lawson with pupils from Ballymancash Primary School

“Opening up Leo Sayers’ shows was brilliant and working with Taylor Dayne was a great experience too,” Andrew said.

“I was in the States and timed to visit here (Northern Ireland) for my parent’s being over.”

“I am spending the end of the year in Jamaica and am looking forward to broadening my music horizons.”

Andrew, who has been playing gigs across America, said his Dad Harry exposed him to a different world of music.

He listed Elvis, Sinatra, Dean Martin and Willie Nelson as his singing idols.

“They are great story-tellers,” he said.

Talking about his visit to Lisburn Andrew and his parents said they were delighted to catch up with family and friends.

“It was good fun going to Ballymacash Primary - everyone made us feel very welcome,” said Andrew.

“We’ve really enjoyed being back in Lisburn - everyone has made us feel very welcome.”