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Young Entertainers Wow at Wirral Festival

A young singing sensation wowed the crowds as the inaugural Love Wirral Festival lived up to its name.

Along with the Wirral Ukelele Orchestra and children's favourite Peppa Pig, rising star Tabitha Jade Hayles, 13, was among the main attractions at the event staged at the Pyramids Shopping Centre in Birkenhead.

Tabitha, a pupil at Upton Hall Grammar School, sings a variety of her own compositions and popular covers, with backing from her 11-year-old sister Eliza Mai. On drums was another talented youngster, 10-year-old Seth Beard from Neston, who has frequently astounded Neston audiences with his drumming skills over the past four years.

Neston's Seth Beard supported Tabitha Jade Hayles with her sister Eliza Mai.

Next month Tabitha will appear in the final of the national talent competition TeenStar in Birmingham, but she admitted she was nervous about appearing before such a large crowd in the open-air in St John's Square.

"I didn't expect this many people to be here," she said.

Among the teenager's fans watching was West Wirral MP Esther McVey, who said she was visiting the Festival specially to see and hear her sing.

"It's a great atmosphere with the best performers on the best day of the year. It couldn't be better," she said.

Ms McVey is also an admirer of the Wirral Ukelele Orchestra whose upbeat renditions of songs at intervals throughout the day had the crowds tapping their feet and swaying to the music.

"They have a huge following, and I'm not surprised," she said.

The 20-strong orchestra was formed only three years ago, with members coming from all walks of life, and while some had previous musical experience others began playing for the first time.

The day-long programme was enjoyed by all from toddlers to pensioners and all the performers were greeted with rapturous applause.  The festival was staged in response to suggestions from regular customers at the Pyramids who felt it was an ideal venue to showcase local talent.

The Wirral Ukelele Orchestra entertained crowds during the festival.

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