First Hartlepool's Got Talent puts stars in the limelight as it proves to lead the way for town's performers

The Borough Hall played host to the contest, which has been hailed such a success that further events are in the pipeline as well as a series of shows to be held around the town as audiences get another chance to enjoy the show.

Ten-year-old Imogen Burton, who sang Dead Mom from Beetlejuice was named as the winner of the show.

The three other finalists were Erin Gallagher Smith, 15, who sang Kill This Love, Shinsse Watson, 23, who performed Warrior and Natalie Peek, 26, with Make Me Feel Your Love.

They made it through after four others appeared on the stage, Lennon Hutchinson, Mellisa Keaton, Sky Ondo and The Dolls after they too made it through to the night of entertainment.

The eight were picked for the celebration after 87 acts auditioned at Middleton Grange Shopping Centre during a two-day run last month, when each performed before a panel of judges before the entrants were picked to appear in the live show.

The night also saw guest singers Charlie Atchinson, James Stephenson and Arron Walker take to the stage during the night.

The event was compered by Paul Suggitt and Jaime Horton and put on by Creative Minds NE and the People’s Community Project.

Jaime, of Creative Minds, said: “The atmosphere was electric.

“The night was absolutely great and great to see all the parents and families supporting all the kids and everybody who took part.

“It was brilliant to be able to showcase them and help them progress further, because I know eight of them have been approached by talent guys to do more.

“We see it as helping on their first steps in their career.

“We have already lined up a tour for January and February and at the moment we’ve got eight venues who have said they want to put on the show.”

The event was sponsored by Hilliers Jewellers in Middlesbrough, Kycker, S Vape, Pandora self-storage, Knox Signs, Lillyann’s coffee shop and ARD Photography.