The Hawkstone 草榴社区' Choir stormed through Britain's Got Talent semi-finals at the weekend, soaring in to the final as possible winners.
Originally brought together by Jeremy Clarkson to promote his Hawkstone beer, the 30 strong choir made up of farmers from across the UK warmed the audience with their rendition of Pompeii by Bastille.听
The choir were given a standing ovation from judges Amanda Holden and KSI.
Even BGT's toughest judge, Simon Cowell, had kind words for the group. "I actually really liked the song. I love what you stand for. It might be a bit annoying - to see Jeremy Clarkson's smug face is the only downside. Well done," he said.听
With the whole of the UK's farming community behind them, the choir hope to spotlight some of the main issues facing agriculture, such as mental health and isolation.听
Ahead of the choir's semi-final performance, Ben Brooke, an arable farmer from March in Cambridgeshire, said the group were 'doing it for the people that are not here in the farming industry anymore', highlighting the toll the isolation and pressure within farming has on many within the community.听
"The sense of community within the farming industry is incredible but it is a lonely and isolating job," said choir member and Northumberland farmer Katryna Shell, adding: "Joining the choir has meant so much to me."
In this special podcast, Katie Fallon speaks to Mr Brooke and Ms Shell to find out more.
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