A primary school girl beat the competition to win the latest installment of Ordsall’s Got Christmas Talent.
Seven-year-old Sophie Kendall, who goes to St Luke’s Primary School on Eccles New Road, sung her little heart out with renditions of ‘Wishing On a Star’ from Polar Express and ‘It Was the Night Before Christmas’.
The event at the Welcome Inn on Robert Hall Street saw talented youngsters from ages two to 16 get up and showcase their outstanding skills in singing, dancing or playing instruments.
“She was practicing at home every day for two weeks to get the songs right,” said mum Laura Kendall, who helped organised the competition.
“Sophie has taken part many times but this was her first ever win so she was glowing with pride.
“She’s even taken the trophy in to school to show her teachers and classmates.”
All four judges agreed that Sophie was the best performer on the night, but also heaped praise on the seven runners-up for the quality of their efforts.
They are 11-year-old Erin McAtee, and 10-year-olds Karly Houghton, Luke Carr, Derron Carr, Millie Murray, and Chloe Davies.
Toddler Grace, aged just two, performed a stirring rendition of ‘Let it Go’ from Frozen, which won her a runners-up place and melted a few hearts here and there.
“Derron and Erin are previous winners,” said Laura, “and Karly won when she was aged just three. It just shows the breadth and depth of talent that we’ve got in Ordsall.”
The event was co-hosted by popular 10-year-old Blaine Haney, who Laura says “is born to be a star”.
Ordsall Community Arts started running Ordsall’s Got Talent in April 2009 and it now happens three or four times a year.
“All the young people and adults absolutely love coming along and showing their talents,” Laura added.
It is amazing how talented and gifted the young people are, and they take it very seriously. It is an absolute pleasure watching them and recognising them for all their efforts they put into this event.”
The judges are made up of local mums and residents and all the performers get a certificate of recognition for their efforts.
“This is a massive achievement for the young people of Ordsall to consistently get up and perform, it must be extremely nerve-wracking for them. We’re just so proud of them all,” Laura concluded.
