YOUNGSTERS from Arthur Buglar School in Stanford-le-Hope represented Thurrock in a singing competition raising money for St Luke's Hospice.

They were one of six schools taking part, and though they didn't win, the pupils thoroughly enjoyed representing the borough and helping raise funds for a great cause.

Six schools took part in 'Sing for St. Luke's 2022' at the Towngate Theatre in Basildon. In total more than 200 children aged between four and 11 years sang for their respective schools in front of a panel of judges and a packed audience. 

After much anticipation, the winning school was announced as Whitmore Primary School from Basildon.

This year's judging panel was Jennie Skingsley of Birkett Long, Danny Lawrence, Trustee of St. Luke's Hospice, and St. Luke's Hospice Choir Master, Mike Rawlinson. 

The competition was once again hosted by Graeme Matthews, the popular local children's entertainer and Britain's Got Talent semi-finalist, commonly known as Bam Bam.

He said: "It was great to be back to compere such a wonderful competition for St. Luke's Hospice. All the children showed real courage to perform on stage and the talent was outstanding. A huge well done to everyone who took part and thank you for helping to raise money for our local St. Luke's Hospice."

Joanna Lucas, Schools Fundraiser at St Luke's Hospice, said: "We were thrilled to welcome back young singers to the stage for Sing for St. Luke's. Nearly £9000 was raised for the Hospice which will help us continue to provide specialist palliative and end of life care to people in Basildon and Thurrock. A huge thank you to the schools for all their efforts, to everyone who bought tickets, Sing for St. Luke's sponsor Birkett Long and for our wonderful judging panel who had a very tough job choosing this year's winner."

The other participating schools were: Wickford Church of England School (Wickford), Ryedene Primary School (Basildon), Greensted Junior School (Basildon)and Lincewood Primary School (Langdon Hills).

Winners Whitmore Primary School. Picture by Phil Jones Photography.

Feeling inspired? Why not organise your very own Sing for St. Luke's show. You can get involved by holding a singing event in aid of the charity at a time and place which suits you – whether it's a special performance for family and friends, a talent show, karaoke night or performance with your choir.

Money raised at Sing for St Luke's shows will allow the Hospice to continue providing compassionate care to people in Basildon, Thurrock and surrounding areas, whose illnesses are no longer curable. For further information and support, or to let St Luke's know you are hosting a show, contact their fundraising team on 01268 524 973 or [email protected].