Chance for schoolchildren to show Dearne Valley has the X Factor

SCHOOL pupils from across the Dearne Valley are set to get the chance to perform in an X Factor-style singing show for charity, thanks to their music teacher.
Belinda WhiteBelinda White
Belinda White

Belinda White has recruited 30 young people from Sir Thomas Wharton School in Edlington, Netherwood Academy in Wombwell, St Pius X Catholic High School in Wath, and De Warenne Academy in Conisbrough for the Doncaster Fame Academy Charity Show.

The competition, which will be raising money for the Doncaster Parkinson’s Support Group, takes place at the Doncaster Diamond Live Lounge on Wood Street, Doncaster, on Thursday, December 7.

The students — aged from 12 to 18 — will sing solo, in duets or as trios, and five could be selected for free recording sessions.

Belinda, who has organised the event because she has worked with the Doncaster Parkinson’s Support Group in the past, said that tickets were selling fast for the event.

Although there is no prize in the contest, pupils taking part will gain vital performing experience and help towards their music grades.

The venue has been given for free.

Belinda said: “They will all be singing really cool numbers.

“It will be like The X Factor but without the judges. It’s going to give them live experience.

“My students are very good too so it’s not a night of awful singing. It’s going to be awesome.

“All of my students need a live experience in front of a big audience and my brainchild was to use my show to raise money for my community.

“I just thought that I have got all these kids who want to do a show and all their families who would buy tickets.

“I can raise £1,000 in one night and give it directly to the support group.

“Every penny raised goes directly to the support group and I do not make any money from this event.

“Everyone on the night is a volunteer.

“The Diamond management has given the venue free of charge on the night and a recording studio has given five free recording sessions to the five best students performing.

“I also have entertainment agents attending on the night.”

Tickets priced £5 to £7.50 are available at http://tinyurl.com/y888dlfu.