Peterborough schoolboy singer has Got What It Takes

Teenage singer-songwriter Thomas Dunleavy is currently starring in CBBC show Got What it Takes, taking on a variety of challenges to prove he can make it in the music industry.

During the show, Thomas has had to tackle everything from vlogging on social media to songwriting, with the assistance of celebrity guests including Youtuber Saffron Barker and Nicola Roberts from Girls Aloud- but mum Sara has also been put to the test to help her son win the show.

Should he triumph, 14-year-old Thomas will get to perform at Radio One’s Big Weekend, which sees tens of thousands of music fans attend to see some of the biggest names in pop.

Thomas, who lives in Stilton and goes to Sawtry Village Academy said: “I started playing guitar when I was nine, just playing a few chords. My dad taught me a few chords.

“I’ve now done gigs all round the country, and have done busking in my spare time.
“I listen to a range of bands - Green Day, The Who, Ed Sheeran, they all inspire me.”

The show, which is broadcast every week in a 10-week series, sees a group of youngsters, each with a different singing or musical style take part in a variety of challenges to try and win a spot in the weekly sing off. Should they miss out, their mum’s take part in a different task - including riding a rollercoaster or a fancy dress time trial, with the winner seeing their child through.

Thomas said: “Filming was great. It lasted three weeks, and everyone got on really well. We still meet up and are good friends.”

The winner will be decided by public votes at the end of the series. The show is broadcast on the CBBC channel at 5.50pm on Wednesdays.