Many of us had socially-distanced street gatherings with our neighbours during the Covid lockdowns – but it is unlikely that many of these ended up inspiring a potential future rock star.
For Olly Pearson, who was seven at the time, seeing a neighbour play guitar during one of these get-togethers was life-changing.
Now aged 11, he is heading for the semi-finals of Britain’s Got Talent after getting a golden buzzer for his rip-roaring audition – a medley of rock classics from bands including Queen, AC/DC and Van Halen.
Each of the talent show judges can use the golden buzzer for an act they believe is exceptional – with Amanda Holden pressing it for Olly during auditions in Blackpool.
Sarah Easedale