On Saturday, the Kids Inspire ‘Kids Can Do it at Christmas’ event drew in the crowds at the Eastgate Shopping Centre in Basildon.

Among the entertainers supporting the event was local man P. Teddy Sawyer, who used his experience as host from the Northern Soul show, Route 67, to MC throughout the day. Soul music was the backdrop for live performances from young local talent:

Local lad, Alex, played two sets of Rock music on his guitar, while a young lady – Keeley – took an opportunity to perform and share her talents live!

DanceWorld, a stage school based in Basildon, also put on a wonderful display for all to enjoy with an enthusiastic routine.

The open mic session saw the bravery and talent of a family of four kids who collectively sung songs from their school Christmas production. Feeling inspired, a trio of teenage boys sung a Christmas song to watching crowds, while one woman stepped up to sing a festive tribute to her watching mum and sisters. The Open Mic session came to a close following the lively performance from a five-year boy who found the courage to step up and sing Jingle Bells! The whole day was inspirational for many onlookers.

Elizabeth Bayliss, Community Engagement Officer for Kids Inspire, commented: “We were amazed and impressed by such talent and bravery throughout the day. Each and every kid (and adult!) that took the microphone, inspired crowds and gathered an impressive response in return.

“The event couldn’t have gone ahead without the generosity of so many, so huge thanks must go to our wealth of volunteers who kindly gifted their time to make the day a success!

The team talked throughout to the interested crowds to make them aware of the services Kids Inspire offer; mentoring; and volunteering.

“We are so pleased to be putting Kids Inspire on the map in Basildon and we look forward to raising the profile of the children’s charity further still when we reach out to the local community for the input into our Listening Enquiry project.”