LAUGHTER and tears were shed at the emotional Castlegate Centre concert starring disabled performers.

Among the audience was former archbishop’s envoy Terry Waite, whose own bravery kept him alive during five years of captivity in Beirut.

He clapped in support of the 14 singers as they headlined a one-and-a-half-hour concert.

The singing sensations have been performing for the past five years with Sharon Jarvis, who has had the esteemed job of watching her students’ self-esteem and stage presence evolve.

Yesterday was Mr Waite’s second visit to the Colchester centre which boasts Lord Lexden as a patron.

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Terry Waite CBE

Sharon said: “The singers knew a little about Mr Waite’s story from what I’d told them - that he’s overcome a lot and is very brave.

“The significance of having people such as him and others in the public eye come to watch is to show the singers they can do it and deserve to be heard.”

Songs chosen by individual performers ranged from uplifting musical numbers, country and western, Elvis Presley and pop tunes.

Sharon said it was all about encouraging self expression, meaning their personalities dictate the song choices.

She said: “It’s a mascara alert moment. They always touch people’s hearts because they’re so brave and courageous. But they’re starlets now, they really love doing it.

“As soon as it’s finished they ask about the next one as we do between two and three a year.”

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The adults who put on the show have a range of learning difficulties and are also part of the Castlegate day group.

Breda Spriggs has managed the centre for 13 years and said: “Some of the songs are so personal to the group you know how much it comes from the heart.

“Their talent shines through and the amount of effort which goes into the concert produces amazing results.

“We watch the confidence of each person blossom and are so lucky to have Sharon here.”