‘X-Factor’ star to perform in Clitheroe

The mystery television artist has been signed up by The Grand for one night only as the eight finalists battle it out for the 2012 crown.

Hundreds of teenagers have auditioned for Grab, with Bowland High School represented in the final by singers Kelsey Gill, Callum Shaw and dancer Claudia Maybury. Ella Shaw, Karen Wilkinson and Paul Bell made it through from St Augustine’s RC High School, while singer and pianist duo Ellie Humberstone and Ella Wolfenden, will fly the flag for Clitheroe Royal Grammar School. Singer Shannon Bond, a star at the 2011 Grab final, and who will be performing at the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games, will again represent Ribblesdale High School.

Steven Lancaster, Executive Director of The Grand said: “We’ve lined up a really special surprise and I’m sure everybody at Grab will be blown away when they find out who it is. It really is going to be a great night.”

He continued: “The standard of the contestants this year has been incredible and I know that it is going to be very hard for the judges to pick a winner.”

Steered by The Grand’s High School forum members, with support from venue and schools’ staff, it is hoped that Grab 2012 will raise a record amount for charity. The final stages of the event, including the winning cash prize, are being sponsored by the Co-Operative Bank and Ribble Valley Children’s Trust.

The 2011 event raised £4,000 for charity and this year the Solomon Project, which helps to provide school meals for children in Africa, Make-A-Wish Foundation and the Multiple Sclerosis Society, will all benefit.

Grab is fast earning a reputation for unearthing young stage talent, after singing sensation James Holt wowed the sell-out crowd with his solo song Broken Doll by Paloma Faith to win Grab 2011. Another packed house can look forward to James showcasing his growing talent with another special song during the show, while Clitheroe dance sensation Alix Carey said her appearance at the 2011 Grab final helped her gain a place at a world famous dance school in London.

“The atmosphere at the two semi-finals last month was electric and we are going to see some special performances,” added Steven Lancaster. “It is a great way to celebrate our local talent, the proceeds also helping those suffering poverty in Africa.”