A TEENAGER from County Durham got to sing on stage with one of his musical heroes after impressing with his performance on a TV talent show. 

Ryan Lofthouse, from Stanley Crook, near Crook, appeared on The Voice Kids on Saturday.

The 14-year-old sang Dancing in the Dark, by Bruce Springsteen in his blind audition, grabbing the attention of judge Danny Jones.

The McFly singer and guitarist not only chose to be a mentor to Ryan, and also got up on stage to sing with him – a dream come true for the youngster.

The pair performed McFly hit Obviously.

Ryan said: “The Voice was an amazing experience. I’ve met so many amazing people.

“It’s so fun to just be there and experience it all.”

Ryan, who goes to school at Parkside Academy, in Willington, was cheered on from the sidelines by mum Carolyn, dad Mal, twin brother Tom and younger brother Declan, 10.

Mrs Lofthouse said: “We were so so proud of him. We were bursting. 

“It was a dream come true for him. He wanted to go on because he’s a huge McFly fan so it’s like he’s already won. It was an incredible experience.”

She added: “When we went in he was sat on the side of the stage he said he was nervous but after he did his rehearsal he came back and said it was more scary looking at the stage than being on it.

“He loves to be up there. He’s always been into music and and he’s always singing.

“It’s his life really.”

Ryan loves to perform and enjoys busking on the streets of Newcastle.

He also recently performed at The Gala Theatre, Durham, as part of a Big Gig event, put on by Durham Music Service. 

On Friday, about 17,500 children took part in musical events all over County Durham, which ended with the Big Gig. 

Ryan is now part of Team Danny and will take part in the next stage of the competition, which will be shown in a few weeks time.

The Voice Kids continues on ITV at 8pm on Saturdays.