Moulton Chapel competition bursting with talent as Ukrainian opera singer Oksana wows crowd

There ‘wasn’t a dry eye in the house’ as a Ukrainian opera singer was among the many highlights as a village marked a 300th anniversary with a talent competition.

Over 200 people attended the Moulton Chapel’s Got Talent event at the community centre on Friday night as part of the celebrations of three centuries of St James’s Church.

Among the 50 acts was Oksana Ponaida, who has moved to the village from Lviv with her children to flee the war.

She performed in tradtional Ukrainian dress.

“There wasn’t a dry eye in the house,” said organiser and compere Jeff Woods who also performs as Pavanotti. “We had a marvellous evening with the village community enjoying some amazing local talent from Moulton Chapel and beyond.

“There was something for everyone – singing, keyboard players, guitarists, dancing, a football skills demonstration, readings and even a tambourine ensemble.

“Acts included Moulton & Whaplode Scouts, Moulton Chapel Primary School, John Bland Memorial Choir, Moulton All Saints’ Church Belles, Jane Howell of Cowbit, Colin from Long Sutton on bassoon and the Pinchbeck WI Tambourines.

“The show was a massive success and the refreshments and raffle organised by Jacqui Woods gave a welcome boost to church funds.

“Thanks also to Tilly’s Events of West Pinchbeck who provided the bar and Coun Anthony Casson who officially opened the show.

“Thanks too for everyone who came. It was truly the best of village life!”