A WORLD-FAMOUS tenor has praised the talents of a competition-winning North-East choir during his performance in the region.

Russell Watson used his performance at Darlington Civic Theatre to praise the winners of the Sing to Win competition held by the town's Cornmill shopping centre.

Queen Elizabeth (QE) Sixth Form College's rock choir, which won last year’s festive choir competition, accompanied Watson as he performed a range of songs.

The 30-strong choir was picked out to perform with the tenor after impressing theatre director and competition judge Lynda Winstanley during their performance at the grand final of the contest.

The competition is back for a second year and organisers are calling out for talented young singers in and around Darlington to get involved for a chance to win £1,000.

Speaking after the show, Russell Watson said: “I really enjoyed working with QE's rock choir who did a great job.

"I’d like to wish all of this year’s entrants the very best of luck.”

From established choirs to those that are newly-formed, school choirs to church choirs, both amateur and professional, the Cornmill is calling for groups to enter and be in with a chance of being shortlisted to perform live in the shopping centre on their Christmas late night Thursdays.

"This year the competition will be open to choirs with four or more members and of the ages 18 and under.

The first of three heats will take place on Thursday, November 26, with successful choirs making it through to the grand final on Thursday, December 17.

Steve McGarvie, head of music at QE, said: “Last year’s competition was absolutely fantastic and it was a privilege to be named the winners.

"I would encourage any group of singers, experienced or not to get involved in the competition and sing to win. We’ll certainly be back to defend our title this year.

“The opportunity for the choir to sing with Russell Watson at the Darlington Civic Theatre was such a special occasion that I know none of the choir will ever forget.”

Cornmill manager Susan Young said: “Cornmill’s Chorus was a huge hit last year and rock choir were really deserving winners.

“We’re delighted to be hosting the competition for a second year running and are delighted that Russell Watson praised QE and wished us luck during his performance at the Civic Theatre.

"We look forward to receiving plenty of entries over the coming months.”

Choirs interested in taking part in the competition can enter by visiting cornmillcentre.co.uk and downloading and completing the entry form.

The deadline for entries is Friday, October 9.