Retired Bedford farmer sings in choir crowned Britain’s Got Talent winner
A retired contract farmer from Bedford was part of a choir crowned Britain’s Got Talent victor – while their emotional founder, Jeremy Clarkson, viewed from the audience.
On Saturday, May 30, 10 finalists performed on the talent show for their last time, in a bid to win a 250,000 prize and a spot at the Royal Variety Performance.
In a bold move, the choir sang an original uplifting song called ‘This is Home’, leading them to become the first choir to ever win the show.
Among them was Tim Durrant, 69, who has spent nearly 40 years in the agriculture sector.
Speaking to Bedford Today before the performance, he called the experience “wholesome” and explained: "Having a well-developed imposter syndrome, I found that being accepted by others into the farmer's choir has given me a sense of community and belonging that I hadn't realised I'd lost.”
Tim joined the choir after spotting an advert on farming Facebook groups, seeking "strong singers who are farmers or farm workers for a lager advert" – and signed up as he had a history of singing folk songs in pubs, as well as performing with Bedford Morris Men.
Lizzie Deane, the choir’s director from Milton Keynes, stood to the front left of the judges, leading the choir and harmonizing their voices.
An emotional Jeremy Clarkson, the choir’s founder, was shown watching proudly in the audience.
Speaking after the win, Lizzie said: “It was truly one of the greatest experiences of my life! We were so nervous as they were about to announce the winner, clinging onto each other for dear life! The moment they said our name, we just erupted with pure emotion and the audience went crazy.
"Still can't believe we're the first choir ever to win BGT! Massive thanks to everyone who voted for us!”
After the performance, leading judge Simon Cowell said: “I thought that was absolutely stunning, heartfelt, joyous. The leads were great. The choir was great.
“Britain’s Got Talent is about celebrating talent, and tonight, that was absolutely on the money!
“I really think this is the best act we’ve seen so far tonight. And I think you’ve got a chance of winning the entire competition.”
The 32-strong choir was initially founded by Jeremy for a beer advertisement campaign, but it quickly evolved into a vital support network.
The group is dedicated to raising awareness for mental health and suicide prevention in an industry often facing isolation and intense financial pressure.
They have pledged to donate a significant portion of the £250,000 grand prize, to mental health charities supporting the farming community.
As the 2026 winners, the Hawkstone Farmers Choir will now prepare for their debut before the Royal Family.