Farnham’s ‘fantastic’ Freddie has soared to stardom after wowing the nation with his voice in the BBC’s Junior Young Chorister of the Year 2023.

The 12-year-old chorister from St Thomas-on-The Bourne was described by judge Wynne Evans as having a “voice that touches your heart”.

Although he did not win, Freddie was pleased at how far he made it in the competition and described the experience as “brilliant”.

Freddie said: “It has definitely given me more confidence when singing in front of people and I’m not as nervous.”

Freddie has now had two songs professionally recorded. One is the full version of Sweet was the Song by Bob Chilcott, the Christmas song he performed in the final of the competition and recorded at St Andrew’s Church with Farnham’s Vox Chamber Choir. 

The other is carol O Holy Night by Adolphe Adam which was released on his YouTube channel on Christmas Eve.

But the costs of professional recordings are expensive and there’s only a limited amount Freddie’s family can support.

They have been advised to set up a GoFundMe page and if the public like Freddie’s music then they can help keep it going. 

Freddie’s mum Jo Simpson said: “We’ve been overwhelmed with the feedback of the recording he has done. But because of the costs of professional recording we’ve had to set up a GoFundMe page.

“If people are interested in hearing more of Freddie’s music, they have the option to contribute to cover the professional recording costs for additional songs in the New Year.”

So far, £500 of the £10,000 target has been raised and Mrs Simpson hopes they will be able to raise the money.

She describes Freddie’s singing as a “love” and a “passion” and the future could lead anywhere for his talent. 

And Freddie already has a local following, as he was recently recognised while waiting for an appointment and other places around the area.  Who knows, ‘Fantastic’ Freddie might be the next name added onto the town’s Famous Names of Farnham wall in South Street!

To donate towards Freddie’s recording costs, visit http://tinyurl.com/Help-to-Record-Freddie-Simpson

Listen to Freddie on his YouTube Channel, at https://www.youtube.com/@freddiesimpson.official

By Michelle Monaghan