The Y Factor – a friendly youth talent show – took place at the Youth Arts Centre, Kensington Road, Douglas, and gave 18 young acts, involving 66 young people aged 10 to 18, the chance to perform.
 
Although it is a competition, it is judged in such a way that ensures more than just natural talent is recognised, explained Ken Callister, judge and principal youth officer. ‘It is a real challenge for some young people to get up in front of strangers and perform and this event is put on to encourage youngsters from any of our 65 youth clubs to be brave enough to have a go. It’s a great way to build confidence and self-esteem, which are important life skills.’
 
Ken’s fellow judges were Debs Gwinnell from Typhoon House; Tina Edge, Development Officer with Junior Achievement and Mike Clague of the Young Magicians of Mann.
 
The winners were Crazie Kidz, a dance group from Auldyn Youth Club; Abby Moffatt, a solo artist from Laxey Youth Club, and Kyle Howarth, a young solo dancer from Onchan Junior Club.
 
Debs Gwinnell said: ‘I had a great evening. What a talented and great bunch of kids.’
  
Photo shows Crazie Kids Shannon Jennings, Chloe Baker, Aiden McMahon, Jade Young, Alishe Craine, Caitlyn Glover, Kaylee Kinley, Sophie Jennings, Olivia Kelly, Jenna Darwin, Rhiannon Glover, Chanise Misselbrook.