Dingwall race night and karaoke sees dream team singers link up for Ness Factor fundraiser for Highland Hospice

Two Ness Factor contestants are teaming up to create the perfect charity fundraiser in aid of Highland Hospice in Dingwall on Saturday night.

Ness Factor hopefuls Joanne Ross and Liam Christie have come together to organise a Race Night this Saturday, September 23, at 7.30pm in the British Legion in Dingwall.

This year the winner receives a coveted place to perform at Belladrum Tartan Festival 2024.

See also: What's On in Ross-shire

Dingwall singer steps out of her comfort zone for cause to close to heart

As both Joanne and Liam are from Dingwall, and know a lot of the same folk from the area it 'made sense to do a joint event'.

The evening will feature a karaoke and disco alongside the racing. Races host for the evening will be Ali Matheson, with Craig Noble hosting the karaoke and disco afterwards.

Talking about his experience in the Ness Factor so far, Liam (53) said: "The coaching is great and hard work. My vocal coach, Tony Henry is pushing me to really stretch out of my comfort zone. In fact, I’ve pushed a little too hard and lost my voice a couple of times already!

"I was involved with first getting Ness Factor off the ground with Lornagh Seigel and have hosted the Ness Factor as MC for the last five shows so I thought I’d give it a go myself, and was delighted to get through the audition.

"My Dad passed away at the same age as I am now, when I was only age 13, and at that time the Hospice didn’t exist. He was treated at the old Culduthel Hospital back in 1983 before the Hospice evolved. The work that they do across the Highlands and Islands is vital and such a support to families.

"So I’m doing this in my Dad’s memory as it will be 40 years to the day, when the show takes place, that he died."

If anyone would like more information or book a table at the Races Night, contact Liam at christiecs2020@outlook.com

Got a community event in Ross-shire you'd like to tell us about? Email hector.mackenzie@hnmedia.co.uk or iona.macdonald@hnmedia.co.uk

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