Vikki takes BBC contest crown

Nov 1 2007 by Lorna Prichard, Cynon Valley Leader

KYLIE and Britney had better watch out – Mountain Ash has its own singing sensation hoping to make it as a star.

Velvet-voiced Vikki Bebb, aged 16, of Main Road, Ynysboeth, was crowned winner at a BBC talent contest.

It was presented by radio star Owen Money and took place in Porthcawl.

A sixth former at Mountain Ash Comprehensive, Vikki said she had her grandparents and mother to thank for persuading her to enter.

Vikki said: “I’ve been performing since I was eight years old.

“I just love it. But I wouldn’t have entered the competition if my family hadn’t persuaded me to.”

After getting through three heats, Vikki was up against seven other talented youngsters from across South Wales in the final.

She performed Celine Dion’s classic I’m Alive and Lucy Silvas’s What You Made Of before being announced the winner.

She is currently studying music, performing arts, English literature and geography A-levels – while looking out for more opportunities to showcase her fabulous voice.

She entered this year’s X-Factor competition but was disappointed not to get through a first-round heat and meet the panel of famous judges.

“A lot of people do not realise there are heats before you get through to see Sharon Osbourne and the rest,” said Vikki.

“I was quite upset not to get through to seeing Simon Cowell.”

But the determined teenager has not been put off – she is looking forward to trying again next year.