A 16-year-old from Crewe won the Great British Railways HQ talent competition held this weekend - judged by a famous record producer and British TV music series legend.

Singer and dancer, Molly Bennett, who has lived in Crewe all her life, won Rail Idol - held at Crewe Market Hall on Sunday (August 7).

Former Pop Idol judge, Peter Waterman OBE, was the head judge of the town centre talent competition - giving his verdict on 13 talented Crewe acts.

The Rail Idol judging panel: Jess Martindale (Left), Peter Waterman (Centre) and Neil Davis (right) - held at Crewe Market Hall (Cheshire East Council).

The rail enthusiast was joined on the judging panel by owner of Mighty Burger Club, Jess Martindale and The Cat 107.9FM Drivetime radio presenter, Neil Davis.

Crewe's Rail Idol was Inspired by Waterman's former success, Pop Idol.

The competition featured music, dancing, comedy, and poetry from a raft of Crewe-based artists.

Mr Waterman told Nub News: "I was really impressed by all of the acts that performed at Rail Idol and it was great to see so many people enjoying the show. 

A packed Crewe Market Hall watching the Rail Idol competition - enjoying market trader's food and drink (Cheshire East Council).

"Molly was a worthy winner and I'd like to congratulate everyone who took part for their performances."

During the competition, food and drink were on offer to the audience from Crewe Market Hall's traders. 

The competition was aimed at gathering more support for Crewe's bid to become the home of Great British Railways.

Mr Waterman said: "While it was a great show, it had a bigger purpose – helping us in our bid to be the home of Great British Railways.

Peter Waterman (Centre), has urged the people of Crewe to vote for the town to become the GBR HQ before the August 15 deadline (Cheshire East Council).

"I've been supporting Crewe for years now and GBR would mean a huge amount to our town.

"It's so important to get out and vote because if we don't others will."

Rail Idol Full Running Order:

• 1.      Kelley Tigerheart Phillips (Singer)
• 2.      Marc Gallagher (Multi Musician and Singer)
• 3.      Gareth Williams (Street Poet)
• 4.      Faye McCallum (Singer)
• 5.      Matrix Dance Squad
• Break-
• 1.      Andrea Lambelle (Pianist)
• 2.      Lilly Ball ( Singer)
• 3.      Moore & Moore (Father and Son Train Blues Duo)
• 4.      Jonah Shaw (Singer Songwriter)
• Break-
• 1.      Colin Jacklin - A song for Crewe
• 2.      Molly Bennett (Song & Dance)
• 3.      Ciara Hicks-Evans (Comedienne)
• 4.      Emillie Jasmine (Singer)

The public vote for the GBR HQ ends next Monday (August 15). You can still vote for Crewe HERE.

READ MORE: Councillor believes code of conduct could prevent members from criticising the council.

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