Children in Need: Blyth boy with heart condition to perform live on BBC
A boy from Blyth who had open-heart surgery will perform live on this year’s BBC Children in Need.
The Children in Need Choir, made up of 16 children and young people, will perform a special live medley during this year’s Appeal Show on Friday, November 13.
Each participant has been supported by BBC Children in Need funded projects in their area.
One young person taking part is 12-year-old Reece from Blyth who was born with Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome.
Since birth, he has undergone open-heart surgery and several further operations, and will require a heart transplant in the future.
Despite the challenges of living with a complex heart condition, Reece approaches life with determination and enthusiasm.
Reece attends the Newsham and New Delaval Youth Forum, a BBC Children in Need-funded project that provides a safe and supportive space for young people.
Through the project, Reece has made friends, grown in confidence and enjoyed spending time with other children his age.
"I love performing, so I'm really excited to be part of the BBC Children in Need Choir,” Reece said. “It's going to be amazing singing in front of so many people and being part of such a big show."
Led by renowned vocal coach and music arranger, Mark De-Lisser, the group of children and young people will perform a medley of hits including ‘Stargazing’ and ‘You’ve Got the Love’.
The choir will be joined on stage by young people from the Hallé Youth Training Choir in Manchester.
The choral arrangement and backing track have been produced by Mark De-Lisser and Steve Sidwell, with accompaniment from the BBC National Orchestra of Wales, conducted by David Arnold.
Mark De-Lisser, Choir Master, said: "Every year, this choir reminds me just how extraordinary young people are.
"Bringing together children and young people from projects supported by BBC Children in Need creates something far greater than a performance.”
Claire Hoyle, CEO at BBC Children in Need, said: "The BBC Children in Need Choir is a wonderful celebration of the children and young people at the heart of everything we do.
"It also reflects the incredible partnership between BBC Children in Need and the BBC, bringing together talented young people from communities across the UK and showcasing their stories through the brilliant regional stations.”