Talented young people are celebrating after winning the Sandwell SHAPE Your Talent contest.

Year 13 student Sophie Rose De-Bear won the top spot in the 14 to 19 category. The 17 year-old student from George Salter Academy in West Bromwich wowed judges with her sensational, thought-provoking dance performance on the impact of knife crime.

The winning act of the 8 to 13 year-old category took inspiration from Hugh Jackman film The Greatest Showman. The Tinx performed a duet of A Million Dreams. Jaimee-Lee and Olivia make up the duo act The Tinx and are from Cradley Heath.

Eight acts performed at the talent contest final to compete for a trophy and £500 prize money. The finalists were chosen by a public vote following acts performing in heats in each of the six towns in Sandwell. Truchio Powell, Creative Director from Aston Performing Arts Academy, said:

"I have been judging the competition for five years. The talent in Sandwell is exceptional and this year's competition provided with amazing performances. 

The Mayor of Sandwell Councillor Doctor Ann Jaron saw the performances and presented the winners with their awards and prizes of £500. She added:

"I had an absolutely wonderful time at the SHAPE Talent Show. It was truly an honour to see such talented young people perform on one stage. Congratulations to all involved with the show, but especially to the young people who won."