Young Scots singers given a 'once-in-a-lifetime' opportunity by chart-topper Tom Walker

Three young Scottish singers were given a 'once-in-a-lifetime' opportunity to perform in front of chart-topping star Tom Walker.

The 32-year-old, originally from Kilsyth in North Lanarkshire, performed in Paisley on Wednesday night after inviting talented youngsters Erin Hephzibah, Hollie Robinson and 15-year-old Sam Baird to the stage.

Earlier this year the 'Leave a Light On' singer launched 'Tom's Towns' initiative - staging free pop-up gigs across the UK to highlight hidden talent in smaller communities.

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The three budding singers performed for hundreds of fans in the town's County Square during the 30-minute gig.

Hollie, 20, from Paisley, said it was a "dream" to support Tom on stage.

She told the Record: "It was amazing being able to share the same stage as Tom Walker. He is such an incredible artist with so many great songs, it felt like a dream.

"I think the opportunities Tom has given to the local talent is incredible. He said he loved Paisley.

"Before the show he came over and said he was excited to watch us perform. It was such a great opportunity. I will definitely be telling my grandkids about this!"

Erin, a 25-year-old full-time artist and musician from Glasgow, also revealed how ecstatic she was that Tom and his team were working within local communities.

She said: "It’s really nice to see a name like Tom Walker working within local communities to raise artists in that area and encourage his fans to support them too. Support within the music industry is so important, from other artists and the public.

"Wednesday was a brilliant experience, other than the weather of course, but it didn’t seem to rain on anyone’s parade. The atmosphere was great."

Teenager Sam Baird, from Clydebank, was praised by Tom's management following his performance.

The 15-year-old said: "My set was shared on Tom's Instagram.

"His management told my mum I have great stage presence. I'm only 15 but the crowd loved it as much as Tom did."

Tom burst onto the music scene after scooping Breakthrough Artist at the Brit Awards in 2019. He has already visited Tamworth, Barnsley, Huddersfield, Wrexham and Colchester to deliver free live performances in the streets.

He previously said "times are tough" and hoped his initiative would allow families to enjoy some live music in towns that artists don't usually play and help local buskers and musicians get their big break.

After the packed show in Paisley, he took to social media to thank those who braved wet and windy conditions.

He wrote: "Paisley. What an epic day. I honestly thought no one was gonna show for this one, it was pouring with rain all day.

"Can't begin to tell you how grateful I am for the vibes you all brought down. I can promise we'll be back, I absolutely loved yesterday. Till next time."

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