Mansfield residents' social distancing talent show bid to boost community spirits

Talented people living on Halstead Close, Forest Town, performed acts from the safety of their own drives, and resident Sue Bacon stepped in to judge – along with a life-size cut out of Simon Cowell.

Vocalists Stevens & Knight alongside guitarist Tom Scott started the proceedings with some uplifting songs, then Luke Stirland-Fell performed his football skills, then Cara McAdam displayed doggy dancing and agility with pet pooch Lilly.

Thomas Boath then sang his rendition of Dance Monkey, and sisters Annabelle and Maltida Roebuck showed off their gymnastics and BMX stunts. Guitarist William Love performed a guitar solo whilst vocalist Annabelle Page sung and had everyone cheering from their drives and windows.

Dancers, Jessica Harrison and Erin Harper, enthralled their neighbouring audience with individual dance routines and Poppy Hickman burst into song with her Abba tribute.

The event was finished by resident DJ Ashley Taylor, who rounded off the fun with pumping music for all to dance to and enjoy on their driveways into the early evening.

Kirsten Roebuck, one of the neighbours said: “It was fantastic and made us smile. We felt like we'd won the postcode lottery. Everyone was so amazing.”

With the help of video footage taken by everyone on the close, a 25 minute episode of the final has now been created to give all the participants a souvenir of the day. It – can be found on Youtube by searching “Halstead’s Got Talent” or by visiting their facebook page here.

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