AN inspirational tutor who has helped young people sing their way through lockdown has found herself a new fan - West End leading lady Kerry Ellis.

The star of Wicked and Les Miserables recently joined Songbird Singing founder Suzie O'Donoghue of Greenock for a virtual masterclass.

In the last few months the local vocal coach has built up a big following as she uses all her experience as a youth worker and her passion for singing to lift spirits.

Her singing school has more than doubled in size and she is set to move into a studio.

Suzie said: "It has been such a privilege to be able to help children and young people through this lockdown.

"We were delighted when Kerry Ellis wanted to get involved.

"I am a massive fan and she has been following what we are doing.

"She is a big star and inspirational to us all.

"I attended one of her workshops and ever since then we have kept in touch."

Big name Kelly, who has also starred on Broadway, joined Suzie's songbirds for a singing session before answering questions and offering one to one advice.

Suzie has 60 youngsters under her wing and says it will be a 'dream come true' when she moves into her new studio after outgrowing her base at home.

The 30-year-old, who lives in Forsyth Street, said: "Singing lifts spirits and makes people happy.

"It releases stress and makes people feel confident.

"That is all we are trying to do.

"It is incredible to see the young people coming on."