'Storm Joanne' wows everyone to win Ness Factor 2023

Joanne Ross has won the annual charity Ness Factor singing competition in Inverness.

The 34-year-old support worker from Dingwall received a standing ovation at the Drumossie Hotel for her performance of Proud by Heather Small.

The event is Highland Hospice's version of The X Factor and raised an amazing £86,000 for the charity.

Joanne was among nine finalists to perform to an audience of more than 300 people.

• Joanne 'steps out of comfort zone' to boost lifeline Highland Hospice ahead of Ness Factor challenge

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She was cheered on by family and friends, with a stunning display which prompted judge Andy Monk – the official Simon Cowell lookalike – to say: "Last week we had Storm Babet, tonight we had Storm Joanne!"

Joanne explained her reason for taking part was that "a close family friend unfortunately became terminally ill and relied on the hospice in her final stages. They were absolutely amazing and supported her family so much.

"I have always liked singing so thought it was an ideal opportunity for me to gain some confidence and raise funds for an amazing charity."

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