Jaymi Hensley, who is currently starring in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat at Birmingham Hippodrome, took time out to open the event which kick starts the Black Country Festival this afternoon.

The 29-year-old, who rose to fame as part of X Factor boyband, Union J, has begun to carve out a successful stage career, with his latest role being an all round hit with critics.

Carnival organiser, Stuart Henely, contacted Hensley’s management team on the off chance he’d be free and says when the performer heard Finn’s story he jumped at the chance to help - despite a tight schedule meaning that, in the last 24 hours, he’d travelled from Birmingham to London for an appearance on Loose Women, returned to the second city for an evening show and needed to be back to perform in a 2pm matinee this afternoon. Stuart said:

“We’re so happy Jaymi could come over to cut the ribbon - his schedule is insane so to take time out to visit Halesowen for such a quick appearance is credit to his generosity.

“He could so easily have said no, but when he heard Finn’s story there was no hesitation. He was really keen to come and meet Finn and help where possible and I know his kindness is really appreciated.

“Despite the weather, we’ll soldier on in true Black Country style - we’ve also got two Miss England finalists attending to escort Finn around and promote their own hard work within the community - it’d be great to see as many people here as possible!”

Halesowen Carnival & Music Festival returns to Highfield Park today with three music stages playing a range of artists between midday and early evening. There’s also a range of over 40 stalls and activities including a dog show, teddy bear’s picnic, wrestling and dance performances. Entry is free.