WHAT a wonderful recital we enjoyed at North Billingham Methodist Church last Tuesday.

Ben Thapa – one time member of G4 and now carving out a very successful career in opera and concert – sang to an enraptured audience.

Let’s face it, we don’t often get the opportunity to see a celebrity star singer like Ben, right there in front of you, rather than standing remotely on a platform. Ben found himself surrounded by his audience after the recital and was so friendly, signing autographs and posing for photographs. It was a very special occasion which will be remembered for a long time.

Ben has certainly come a long way since ditching his X Factor image. His friendly, utterly approachable manner has surely won him many new fans. Thank you, Ben.

Miss EA Moralee, Billingham.