The 2020 winner of the hit television show Britain’s Got Talent is heading to Beverley’s Flemingate centre to kickstart Christmas.
Comedian and musician Jon Courtenay, who was crowned the 14th winner of the popular ITV series last year, will make a special appearance at Flemingate’s Christmas lights switch-on on Friday, November 19.
Jon was the first-ever “Golden Buzzer” act to win the series after presenters Ant and Dec catapulted him straight through to the live semi-finals of the show, skipping the Bootcamp stage and going on to win the overall public vote.
Pop newcomer Vinesto will also appear at the highly-anticipated event, performing his new single “Wish That We”. The 17-year-old rising star is set to light up the international stage after working with Grammy-nominated producer Tommy Brown on the romantic track, from his forthcoming debut album “Different”.
The Flemingate Christmas lights switch-on event was unable to go ahead last year due to the pandemic, but this year a bumper event is planned to enable excited families and residents to enjoy some much-needed festive cheer.
Hosted by Adam Smith and Alex Dunn of Beverley FM, the lights switch-on will feature a spectacular laser light show, replacing previous years’ fireworks displays, to mark the start of the Christmas shopping season and organisers are also on the lookout for a local singing star to open the event.
Beverley FM is encouraging anyone over the age of 13 to enter the “Flemingate Future Star” competition. Singers just need to WhatsApp a video audition of them performing an original or cover song, in any genre or style, to be in with a chance of winning.
The winner will not only open the event, but also appear on Beverley FM, enjoy a style makeover by the team at Flemingate’s Vintage & Co hair and beauty salon, and select an outfit of their choice, worth £100, from the centre’s H&M store.
Father Christmas will also make an appearance alongside popular Ariana Grande tribute act, Just Ariana; the talented All For One Choir; and the all-singing, all dancing pantomime cast from Talegate Theatre.
Cosy Nordic tipi bar Bartipi is making a welcome return with its roaring fire pit, festive lighting and cosy seating, and many of the shops are staying open for a spot of late-night shopping. Revellers can also enjoy food stalls and funfair rides.
Jo Bridgeman, Marketing and Events Manager for the thriving retail and leisure destination, said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to be able to bring this very special festive event back to Flemingate and welcome families and residents to enjoy a brilliant night of entertainment and festivities.
“Rather than fireworks, we’ve organised a fantastic laser light show to bring a new twist to the event and we can’t wait to welcome the incredibly talented Jon Courtenay to Beverley, as well as hearing the winner of Flemingate Future Star perform.
“It will be a great night of festive fun with a combination of music, refreshments, an appearance from the big man in red and, of course, the lights switch-on to mark the start of Christmas at Flemingate.”
The event will take place from 5pm to 8pm. Please note the laser light show contains bright, flashing lights which are not suitable for those with photosensitive epilepsy.
Visitors driving to the event can use Flemingate’s 500-space car park for just £1 for up to three hours.
To enter Flemingate Future Star, text your video entry to 07856 734309 and add your name and age to the message. The deadline for entries is Monday, November 1.
