A concert in aid of Manx charity Junior Achievement and sponsored by Celton Manx gave a young Manx singer a unique opportunity to share the stage with international singing sensations Tenors UnLimited.

Christian Cooper, who came second in Junior Achievement’s talent competition The Next Big Thing earlier this year, was the support act when the tenors -  Jem, Paul and Scott - performed to a packed house at the Villa Marina and helped raise more than ?4,000 for the charity that helps young people to develop skills for the workplace.

The 13-year-old Ballakermeen High School student said: ‘It was a brilliant experience. I was a bit nervous, performing with such amazing artists, but wanted to impress them and the audience. It was very different from singing at the Gaiety Theatre and I was honoured to have been invited to part of such a great night that really inspired me to perform well.’

Junior Achievement’s chief executive Sue Cook said: ‘We were very grateful to Celton Manx for sponsoring the concert and to Tenors UnLimited for giving Christian such a fantastic opportunity.

‘When we first launched the Next Big Thing some four years ago we always hoped it would lead to great things for some of the outstanding young artists we have in the Isle of Man. Christian is a prime example. On stage he showed a maturity well beyond his years and delighted both the audience and the stars of the show. We wish him every success for the future.’

Christian, who reprised the number that secured him second place in the Next Big Thing, Time To Say Goodbye, is now in the finals for Young Singer of Mann 2014 on June 15th.

To find out more about how you can support the work of the charity visit www.jaiom.im

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Image: Tenors UnLimited welcome Christian Cooper to the stage at the Villa Marina. Picture Andrew Barton