A spectacular night of entertainment saw a 12-year-old singing superstar crowned the first-ever winner of Walsall’s Got Talent.

Niamh Mulligan, from Walsall, topped the list of talent at the sold-out charity event on Saturday, hosted by Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust’s Well Wishers charity.

The glittering evening, which took place at Pelsall Community and Arts Centre, saw the audience wowed by 16 incredible acts ranging from singers and choirs to dancers and musicians.

Niamh impressed both the crowd and the panel of judges with her faultless performance of Lost Without You by Freya Ridings, securing the top prize of £250 donated by H & Jodie’s Nisa.

Second place went to Esme Rudd, who received £150 donated by Geoff’s Decks, and third place was awarded to Myles Rich, who won £75 donated by Vibrant Networks.

Niamh said: “Walsall’s Got Talent was an amazing experience, I have a huge passion for singing and performing, and I am over the moon to have won the first ever one.

“Thank you to everyone who gave me the opportunity to be up on stage, doing what I love.”

Reality TV star Sacha Jones, who appeared on Married at First Sight, headed up the judging panel alongside Garry Perry, Associate Director for Patient Voice at Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust, Samantha Hale, Finance Manager at Walsh Funerals and Memorials, and Edward Lee, a professional pianist and organist.

Sacha said: “The standard was incredible; every single act brought something special to the stage. But Niamh’s performance really stood out. She has such confidence and talent for her age, and I can’t wait to see where her journey takes her.”

A total of £2322 was raised on the night and will help create a new space on Walsall Manor Hospital’s paediatric ward, where play specialists can carry out one-to-one therapeutic play sessions with children.

The room will also be used for play therapy and as a calm waiting area for young patients who are anxious about being in a clinical environment.

Georgie Westley, Fundraising Manager for Well Wishers, said: “What an amazing night! The atmosphere was incredible, the talent was outstanding, and we’re so proud of how the community came together to support us. 

“Huge congratulations to Niamh, Esme and Myles, who were fantastic. We can’t wait to build on this success and make Walsall’s Got Talent a regular feature in our charity event’s calendar.”

A huge thank you to all the sponsors who made the event happen:

– Walsh Funerals & Memorials
– H&Jodie’s Nisa
– Vibrant Networks
– Geoff’s Decks
– Creative Solutions
– Best of Walsall
– Dor2Dor