Ray wins at Millbrook's Got Talent (From Daily Echo)

Ray wins at Millbrook's Got Talent

11:13am Wednesday 6th June 2012 in Entertainments

SIMON Cowell may be busy auditioning for the next X-factor – but he wouldn’t have to look further than Southampton for real talent.

From beatboxing, dancing, a nine year-old Elvis impersonator to stunning soloists, belly dancers and matadors, Millbrook’s Got Talent had it all.

The action-packed event saw more than 500 people descend on The Saints pub in Millbrook.

Hopefuls got up on stage in front of a panel of judges including Delays star Aaron Gilbert and Olympic diver Peter Waterfield – and a Simon Cowell lookalike.

With some 27 acts taking part in the free event, the judges had the task of whittling them all down to the final five. But standards were so high they asked the audience for help in sifting the final two and then the winner.

In the end it was beatboxer Ray Ridout who impressed the crowd most, wowing them with his amazing ability to produce drum beats, rhythm and a range of musical sounds using only a microphone and his mouth, lips and tongue.

The victorious 17-year-old from Millbrook then picked up his £1,000 prize, which he hopes to use to forge his beatboxing career.

Millbrook high energy dancing act Pure Soul came second.

Eugene McManus, organiser and licensee of the pub, said: “All the acts were very diverse which kept everyone entertained for eight hours.

“I was very pleased with the variety this year, but not surprised by the standard because as we know not for the first time people in this particular area have come out and demonstrated what talent they have.

“The spirit of the crowd was overwhelming in what was a safe and fun environment.”

One of those enjoying themselves, Mina Davey, 34, from Millbrook, Southampton, said: “I think this is brilliant because it boosts the morale for local youngsters.

And you can bring all the family to a free event.”

Audience member, Jessica White, 9, said: “It is really good because they are all good singers and have the confidence to get up there.”