STUDENTS from Droitwich Spa High School are celebrating after singing their way to success in the Wychavon talent contest The W Factor.
The event took place on Monday at Pershore’s Number 8 Community Arts Centre and saw 36 young people from across Wychavon compete in front of family and friends.
Lucy Gidley, 12, who had never sung in front of an audience before, was victorious after performing Thinking Out Loud by Ed Sheeran.
Her mum Sally said Ed Sheeran was her ‘main music idol’.
Sally said: “The whole event was absolutely superb – I didn’t realise the council funded things like this.
“It was very positive – a great night and the most worthwhile £5 spent.”
Judges said Lucy, who won in the 11 to 13 Singing category, had a ‘natural talent and a strong voice’.
Droitwich Spa also came top of the class in the Singing Ensemble category with Sister Chic – comprising Chloe Earl, 16, Lauren Bough, 17, and Imogen Stanley, 18.
The talented trio enamoured judges with their ‘tight harmonies’ and ‘high standard’ of singing.
Sister Chic said: “We’re not going to lie – standing on the edge of the stage before performing is the most sickening feeling in the world, but once it’s over the buzz is fantastic.
“It’s addictive and makes you want to perform over and over again.
“We’ve loved every second – and whether we won or lost, it’s been an amazing experience all of us will cherish forever.”
Jenny Davis, arts development officer at Wychavon, said: “It was a fantastic evening and the competition was as a tough as ever.
“The talent and passion of the young people taking part was evident to all.
“It’s been wonderful to see the performers grow in confidence following on from the auditions.”
The W-Factor winners will receive assistance with further training and will be invited to perform at events across Wychavon throughout the year.
