Video: Bedfordshire’s Got Talent

Singing, dancing, playing and entertaining... The performers at this year’s Bedfordshire’s Got Talent competition had it all.

Twelve acts from across the county went head to head in a night of pure entertainment at Bedford Corn Exchange on Saturday night, with Kempston girl Belinda Bare taking first place and a dazzling array of prizes.

She narrowly beat off dance troupe runners-up A-Pex Next Generation, while 14-year-old singer-guitarist Sam Hamer from Willington took third place with his version of I Will Follow You Into The Dark by Death Cab For Cutie.

Belinda said: “I was really, really happy to win, I never expected to. I took part last year and was in the top five, and wanted to come back and win it. The competition was tough, but I sang To Make You Feel My Love by Adele and was pleased with how it went.

“I’d say I’m a mix of pop and soul. I like Jessie J and I like Adele, but I’m not into Justin Bieber or anything like that.

“I’d like to be a singer when I grow up, but I’ve also got my eyes on neuro-science. And I’d like to be a model - I’d like to show people that you don’t have to just be really skinny to be a model.”

The top three were a fair representation of the entertainers from the night, which mixed music and dance.

The judging panel was made up of Christopher Dawkins from Singers Bedford - described by organisers as “Bedford’s answer to Simon Cowell. But much nicer!” - Michelle Brealey of Harpur Studios, and Dr Lesley Main of Middlesex University.

And former EastEnders star Ricky Groves hosted the event, with his trademark mix of wit, charm and cajolery.

Belinda’s prizes included recording time at The Grove, an £80million recording facility at Middlesex University, plus a CD or DVD of the results. The Grove features the most up-to-date industry standard technology, including two high-definition TV studios, plus six HD cameras and lighting grids along with lighting and HD post-production galleries.

She also won a video of her performance, a photo portfolio from Harpur Studio, and the opportunity to perform at the Pride In Bedfordshire awards later this year.

Organiser Gillian Politis said: “It was a great night, and all the performers were so talented. There was a great mix of entertainment on offer, and some great performances on the night.

“We had some fantastic judges too, who really knew their stuff and were able to offer advice and feedback in a really positive way, and the audience clearly had a great time.
“I’d also like to thank everyone who took part in our raffle too - we raised £2,000 for Keech Hospice which is a great cause.”

See our video online at www.bedfordtoday.co.uk

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